THE In this issue: • Century Celebrations • District Grand RAC Convocations • Cyril Remembers BBanner • Chapter Reports from anner around the District MARCH 2012 • ISSUE 11 and more...

THE DISTRICT GRAND CHAPTER AND PAST DISTRICT GRAND KING CELEBRATE

Journal of the www.dgracantrim.org

£2.00 2012 Calendar KEY Grand Chapter Stated Convocations District Grand Chapter Stated Convocations Committees of Inspection: East Antrim North Antrim Board of General Purposes

JANUARY Mon 23rd 2.00pm Freemasons' Hall Arthur Sq. Belfast Belfast Area Committee of Inspection Mon 23rd 2.30pm Freemasons' Hall Arthur Sq. Belfast Board of General Purposes Sat 28th 1.30pm Provincial Masonic Hall Belfast District Grand Chapter Stated Convocation FEBRUARY Wed 1st 2.30pm Freemasons’ Hall Dublin Grand Chapter Stated Convocation Wed 1st 5.00pm Masonic Centre East Antrim Committee of Inspection Fri 17th 5.00pm Masonic Centre North Antrim Committee of Inspec tion APRIL Wed 4th 5.00pm Larne Masonic Centre East Antrim Committee of Inspection Mon 16th 2.00pm Freemasons' Hall Arthur Sq. Belfast Belfast Area Committee of Inspection Mon 16th 2.30pm Freemasons' Hall Arthur Sq. Belfast Board of General Purposes Sat 28th 1.00pm Provincial Masonic Hall Belfast District Grand Chapter Stated Convocation Installation of District Grand King & Installation Dinner MAY Wed 2nd 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall Dublin Grand Chapter Stated Convocation Fri 18th 5.00pm Ballymena Masonic Centre North Antrim Committee of Inspec tion Mon 21st 2.00pm Freemasons' Hall Arthur Sq. Belfast Belfast Area Committee of Inspection Mon 21st 2.30pm Freemasons' Hall Arthur Sq. Belfast Board of General Purposes JUNE Sat 16th 1.30pm Provincial Masonic Hall Belfast District Grand Chapter Stated Convocation Sat 16th Visit of Comps from Argyll & The Isles DGRAC of Antrim Entertains Argyll & The Isles AUGUST Wed 1st 5.00pm Larne Masonic Centre East Antrim Committee of Inspection Fri 17th 5.00pm Ballymena Masonic Centre North Antrim Committee of Inspec tion SEPTEMBER Mon 10th 2.00pm Freemasons' Hall Arthur Sq. Belfast Belfast Area Committee of Inspection Wed 19th 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall Dublin Grand Chapter Stated Convocation OCTOBER Mon 15th 2.00pm Freemasons' Hall Arthur Sq. Belfast Board of General Purposes Mon 22nd 7.30pm Provincial Masonic Hall Belfast District Grand Chapter Stated Convocation NOVEMBER Wed 7th 2.00pm Freemasons’ Hall Dublin Grand Chapter Stated Convocation Wed 7th 5.00pm Larne Masonic Centre East Antrim Committee of Inspection Mon 12th 2.00pm Freemasons' Hall Arthur Sq. Belfast Belfast Area Committee of Inspection Fri 16th 5.00pm Ballymena Masonic Centre North Antrim Committee of Inspec tion

Where Campanions Meet South Ballinderry, Broomhedge, Crumlin, Antrim Area Antrim, Ballycastle, Ballymena, , 253, 1012, , , Clough, South East , , , , North Antrim Area , , Vowferry Antrim Area , Carrickfergus 313, , Belfast City Arthur Square, Crumlin Road, Ligoniel , Larne, East Area Antrim Area

2 www.dgracantrim.org THE Foreword BBaannnneerr gain it is my pleasure and privilege to append this foreword to the 2011 Journal of the District Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Antrim A Anniversary Edition of the Banner magazine in what has been a most momentous year for me and all you Companions in the Contents District of Antrim. The 100th Year Anniversary or Centenary Year would be significant in any sphere of social and 2 2012 Calendar charitable activity and it has been no less so in the Most Excellent District Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Antrim. 4 Centenary Banquet & Concert The Centenary year commenced with the January Convocation which was very well attended by companions and visitors. On Sunday 6 Centenary Convocation 6th March 2011 a Service of Thanksgiving was held at Joymount 7 Centenary Celebrations at Presbyterian Church, Carrickfergus conducted by Rev. T. Richard Ballymena RAC No. 775 Graham, B.A. at which the preacher was V.E. Companion Rev. D. Selwoode Graham, M.B.E. The Choral renditions were provided by Cheque Presentation the Masonic Male Voice Choir. The service attracted an attendance of 8 Titanic Memories 300 companions. We were joined by our M.E. Supreme Grand King Michael J. Ward and many other visiting companions from Supreme 9 A visit to Tewkesbury Abbey and District Chapters. On Saturday afternoon, 19th March 2011 Ballymena R.A.C. 775 A family affair at RAC 811 in order to celebrate the District Grand Chapter’s Centenary, 10 Father and Son Partnership exemplified the Mark Master Mason Degree at a convocation of the Grand Chapter of Instruction in Ballymena Masonic Hall Bermuda Triangle It was encouraging to note the youthfulness of the companions 11 Companions Remembered who occupied all the progressive offices and who still have to serve as Excellent King. All credit must go to M.E. Comp. John G Johnston 13 Scottish Royal Arch Masonry and M.E. Comp. Albert Fullerton. Everyone agreed it was an 14 History of Royal Arch Degree ourstanding performance followed by a very enjoyable Festive Board. On Friday 29th April 2011 the weekend biannual visit to the 16 Chapter Reports Provincial Grand Chapter of Argyll and the Isles was undertaken by 26 A Censer of Fire the Officers and members of District Chapter which was again a very successful visit, those attending returning on Sunday 1st May 2011. 30 Return of Warrant of RAC No. 349 The April Convocation was deferred in favour of attendance at the visit to our District of the Supreme Grand Royal Arch Chapter 31 DGC Installation Details on Wednesday 4th May at Provincial Masonic Hall, Rosemary Street, District Grand Registrar Writes Belfast, to celebrate our Centenary. This was an exceptionally well attended convocation which passed off flawlessly. 32 Officers for 2012 On Saturday 15th October 2011, Whiteabbey Chapters and Banner Production Team Class of Instruction exemplified the Royal; Arch Degree in a process which was both ritually correct and most educational for all those fortunate to be present on that occasion. In this incredibly busy year on 4th November 2011 the District Editor’s Note Grand Chapter Banquet and Concert was held in the Tullyglass House Hotel in Ballymena. This superb event was attended to the full capacity of the premises available and a memorable occasion for all. by V. Ex. Comp. Billy Brown On Saturday 5th November 2011 the 100th Year Anniversary Convocation was held at the Provincial Masonic Hall, Rosemary his magazine is testament to the original and superb Street, Belfast. Virtually all the Chapters in the District were Twork of my predecessor R.E. Comp. G Wendell represented with the three principal officers of the foundation McGrath. We wish Wendell and Lorna many happy visits Chapters receiving an illuminated certificate to celebrate their to Masonic events with more time on their hands to Chapter’s part in the foundation of District Grand Chapter in 1911 and their presence at the Anniversary Convocation which attracted enjoy the great social opportunities Freemasonry the highest attendance for many years. provides. Many thanks again to those who sent articles In conclusion, as I reflect on my past 23 years at District Chapter, and photographs – please continue to do so. Thanks also the past 9 years of which as District Grand King, I thank the Supreme to those who buy the magazine, I hope you enjoy it – the King of Heaven and Earth for granting me the good health to enjoy charities benefit from your support. As usual, Peter in immensely that honour and all its opportunities. I have been served by the officers of District Grand Chapter most faithfully and with DCG couldn’t be more helpful and the design and great dedication and as I hand over the sceptre to my successor, my attractiveness of the magazine is down to his genius. Deputy, M.E. Comp Jon McA. Pollock, I wish him every success Support the advertisers when you can – their generosity knowing that I leave a strong and vibrant District Grand Chapter in is essential. good hands to face the next 25 years of its history. Billy Brown M.E. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, M. E. District Grand King.

The Banner 3 DISTRICT GRAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

BANQUET AND CONCERT 4th November 2011

he DGK, Officers and Grand-daughter of our MEC Jim Guests totalling 244 persons McFarland who sang some well Tmet at the Tullyglass House known songs from the shows e.g. Hotel, Ballymena at 7.00pm for a Maybe This Time, I Dreamed a Drinks Reception. At 7.45pm after Dream, Cant Help Loving That Man. grace said by VEC James McClurg, Ballyduff Silver Band led by its all sat down for the 5 Course Musical Director and Companion Banquet which was a superb feast William Hill formed 117 years ago served speedily and with precision. then gave a rendition of popular The Toast to the District Grand marching music. Chapter was proposed by MEC S Miss Alice McFaul, Harpist who Miss Karen Thompson. Gordon Leathem BEM, ME Deputy attended the Garvagh School of Grand King of Supreme Grand Traditional Music and Harp, gave a Chapter, and responded to by the wonderful recital of traditional DGK MEC E Cyril Ferguson. During the course of the toast MEC Leathem referred and paid tribute to MEC CFA Quigley FCA 104 years young who would be 105 in February 2012. MEC Quigley without notes or other prompts responded for approx 10 minutes. M.E.C. George Field and party. At approx 10pm the Concert commenced with Miss Karen Thompson, Student, Singer and

Miss Alice McFaul. Meta, Cyril Quigley and Cyril Ferguson.

R.E.C. John Trail and party.

V.E.C. George Graham and party. V.E.C. Michael and Valerie Alexander. Walter Carson, Lorna & Wendell McGrath.

4 www.dgracantrim.org M.E.C. Cyril Quigley, Mrs and Alan Patterson.

V.E.C. William and Mrs Connor. M.E.C. David and Mrs Wallace.

M.E.C. DGK and guests. R.E.C. Denis and Mrs Millen, John and Mrs Dickson. M.E.C. Alex Ireland and party. tunes such as She Moved Through the Fair, Danny Boy and for the DGK Designate REC J McA Pollock a special rendition of Brian Boru’s March one of the oldest tunes in the traditional Irish repertoire. W Bro Terry Blackburn accompanied Alice with Danny Boy and also sang Summertime and My Curly Headed Baby which was Pat, M.E.C. Cyril and DDGK. R.E.C. Tom and Mrs McCurley. greatly appreciated by all present. Karen Thompson returned and sang Call Me Impossible, Fly Me To The GIBRALTAR OFFICERS Moon, and Dream a Little Dream which concluded her highly acclaimed AT DGC CONVOCATION contribution to the evening. VEC Billy Brown MBE DOC 6th June 2011 acted as MC for the evening. The DGK thanked REC J McA Pollock and REC James Lynch for all the excellent arrangements that had been made for the evening. The evening ended with the DGK thanking all who supported the event, wishing them a safe journey home and hoping that he would see many of the companions at the Centenary Convocation the next day at Rosemary Street after which Ballyduff The District Grand King with R.E. Comp. John Bugeja, Deputy Provincial Grand Silver Band played the National Superintendent of Gibraltar; M.E.C. Joseph Chirari, V.E. Comp. Gerard Lageua, Hon Anthem and brought to conclusion a Past Captain of the Purple Veil; Comp. Andrew Ferrer, Chief Scribe of Calpe most memorable evening. Council No.88 Gibraltar.

The Banner 5 CENTENARY SERVICE OF THANKSGIVING Joymount Presbyterian Church, Carrickfergus

he Centenary service of Thanksgiving took place on TSunday 6th March 2011 at 3.30pm in Joymount Presbyterian Church, Carrickfergus. The service was conducted by Rev. T. Richard Graham, BA. The preacher was V. E. Comp. Rev. D. Selwoode Graham, MBE. Praise was led by the Masonic Male Voice Choir and the Organist was E. Comp. John McIlwaine.

Above: Clergy and the M.E. and Supreme Grand King, M.E. Deputy GK, District GK, District and visiting District Officers. Right: V.E. Comp. Rev. D. Selwoode Graham, MBE. DISTRICT GRAND ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER

CENTENARY CONVOCATION 5th November 2011

he Centenary Convocation was held on Saturday 5th November 2011 at the Provincial Masonic Hall, Rosemary Street, Belfast Tpresided over by the DGK ME Comp. E.C. Ferguson, one of the best attended convocations for many years.

The M.E. DGK E. C. Ferguson presenting a Blackthorn stick to M.E. Comp. C. F. A. Quigley FCA.

Left: Visiting Companions from Scotland. Right: M.E. DGK S. Gordon Leathem BEM, M.E. DGK(D) J. McA. Pollock and M.E. AGK Rev. Canon T. Henry Trimble.

M.E. DGK’s of Armagh and Down. Left: The M.E. DGK’s of Armagh, Antrim Down and Londonderry Donegal, Tyrone and Fermanagh with the M.E. Deputy GK and M.E. Assistant GK.

6 www.dgracantrim.org All the officers carried out their duties without faltering or prompting DISTRICT GRAND and spoke clearly and distinctly. The ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER biggest part was, of course, that by the Senior Deacon, Comp. James Wilson who has inherited his enthusiasm for masonry and degree RAC No. 775 • BALLYMENA work from his grandfathers, the late M.E. Comp. Gordon Wilson and R.E. Comp. Albert Fullerton as well as his he members of Ballymena March 2011. The Companions who father E. Comp. Robert Wilson RAC No. 775 are proud of were installed at their Installation of (Registrar) and his great uncle, M.E. Tthe fact that their Chapter Officers, 2010, filled the offices as Comp. John G. Johnston who were was in existence when the District follows:- all present. Grand Royal Arch Chapter of V. Wor. Master, E. Comp. Michael Everyone agreed it was an Antrim was constituted. They C. Stewart, outstanding performance by all those decided that they wanted to be S.W., Comp. Robin Deane, who took part and the ritual experts part of the District's Centenary J.W., Ex. Comp. William Wilson, of the Grand Chapter of Instruction celebrations and so, encouraged by Reg., E. Comp. R. Wilson, warmly congratulated them. senior members, especially, M.E. D.O.C., V. E. Comp. D. Henderson, The Chapter hosted a very Comps. John G. Johnston and Chaplain, V. E. Comp. I. McElfatrick, enjoyable Festive Board at the Albert L. Fullerton, they decided to M.O., Comp. D. Gray, close of the Convocation. The offer to exemplify the Mark Master S.O., Comp. W. Allen, District Grand King expressed his Mason Degree at a Convocation of J.O., Comp. A. Cochrane, congratulations to RAC 775 on an the Grand Royal Arch Chapter of S.D., Comp. J. Wilson, exemplary demonstration and Instruction. Their offer was J.D., Comp. R. Lynn thanked them for the wonderful accepted and so hard work and I.G., Comp. J. McKeown. spread. He said it was a practice ensued. A large crowd in It is worth noting the number memorable afternoon - a fantastic Ballymena Masonic Hall enjoyed the of officers who still have to attain contribution to the District's result of their labours on 19th the chair. Centenary Year celebrations.

CARRICKFERGUS RAC’S PRESENT CHEQUE TO THE DGK’S CHARITY FUND

n St Andrew’s night 30th November 2011 E.C Roy OWhiteside RAC No 253 presented a cheque to RE District Grand Registrar RE Companion WJ Lynch. The proceeds were raised by the three Chapters at Carrickfergus Masonic Centre Carrickfergus 253, Chichester 313 and St. Andrew’s 1012. The photo shows Roy handing over the cheque to Jim at Carrickfergus Masonic Centre.

The Banner 7 Published on Wednesday 8 February 2012 in the Belfast Newsletter, to whom we record our grateful thanks TITANIC MEMORIES OF CYRIL, 105

Belfast man who has just celebrated his 105th Abirthday may be the last surviving person to have witnessed the launch of the Titanic in 1911. Cyril Quigley – born on February 5, 1907 – recalls his parents taking him to see the launch of the iconic liner’s hull from the Harland and Wolff docks. This week, at his home in east Belfast, Mr Quigley – believed to be the oldest man in Cyril Quigley who is 105 years of age pictured at his East Belfast home. – reflected on a remarkable life in Photograph: Stephen Hamilton Presseye.com which he has also witnessed two world wars and the accession to “He would have been about member of the Freemasons for the the throne of Queen Elizabeth. four years old. I know that he has last 72 years. “Eat plenty of chocolate,” he seen many things during his lifetime He resigned as District Grand laughed when asked for the recipe but I never realised that he had King in 1991 due to his deafness. to his longevity, actually seen the Titanic.” Cyril was honoured with the He also enjoys whiskey and used Thought to be the oldest man Honorary Past Grand Senior to be known as “Mr Black Bush”. in Northern Ireland, Cyril is the Deacon in 2007 to celebrate his “I don’t know how I came to be son of Andrew Quigley, a former 100th birthday, and the Chapter 105. senator in the Northern Ireland Room was renamed the Quigley “The years passed me by. One government in the 1930s. Room in the Freemasons’ Hall in thing annoys me – all the friends I Although he remembers his Arthur Square, Belfast. made, the accomplices, they’re all visit to the launch of the Titanic, he He served with the Ormeau gone.” has no recollection of the Bakery Home Guard during the Although Mr Quigley suffers devastating news in Belfast of the Second World War, holding the sinking of the liner in April 1912. from deafness, he was still able to position of lieutenant. His Cyril’s future father-in-law, attend his local church – Knock responsibilities were to guard the James Arnold, of Delhi Street, Presbyterian – on Sunday, where he Ormeau Bridge and, of course, Belfast, was a plater in Harland and was given a rapturous applause for the bakery. reaching the 105 milestone. Wolff and likely contributed to the During the Blitz his sister was a To mark the occasion he received construction of the ship. After Malta Nurse in the Bridge End a birthday card from the Queen. attending RBAI college in Belfast, hospital which, Cyril remembers, His daughter Barbara said she Cyril went on to achieve first place dealt with many of the more was unaware that her father had in Ireland in chartered accountancy seen the Titanic launch until she in 1928 and later became a fellow serious casualties. took him to see the Hollywood of the Institute of Chartered In 1955 he became president of blockbuster starring Kate Winslet Accountants in Ireland. CIYMS rugby club. and Leonardo Di Caprio. He married Margaret in 1941 “My daughter thought I used to “He never mentioned it before and the couple had two children, be a rugby linesman but I wasn’t. I until that night I took him to the Andrew and Barbara. Margaret just ran up and down the sides of cinema. died in 1983, aged 72. the pitch shouting at the players,” “When we were coming back Mr Quigley was appointed Cyril added. he said that his mother and father financial director of the Ormeau While he has no overriding brought him to see the launch of Bakery, where he worked until 1972. memories of the Queen’s accession in a great ship, which was the Titanic A huge fan of rugby and tennis, 1952, he says “she’s been a wonderful of course. Cyril has also been a leading Queen all these years ”.

8 www.dgracantrim.org TEWKESBURY ABBEY

John Gordon P.D.G.S. (Hon), Registrar 811

n a holiday visit to Cornwall in 2011, I visited OTewkesbury Abbey just north of Cheltenham which was consecrated 1121. The attached picture is on display for visitors and refers to Gloucester which is south of Tewkesbury. Masons Marks go back to antiquity and were used to identify the work of the individual operative mason. This is probably an over simplification The subject is much too complex and wide to be dealt with in a short article such as this, but there is a wealth of information available on the Internet which I would recommend. Whilst our ritual invites us to Register our marks as Speculative Masons, in my experience not R.E. Comp. M.W. Walker. For Master Masons to register their many do. I registered my Mark in posterity my Mark is affixed along marks especially Secretaries. I think 1996 and keep the Supreme with my signature as Secretary. in if used as described it enhances GRAC Certificate in the front minutes of Mark MM Meetings. our records and may be interesting page of our Chapter Roll Book. It I hope this will be of interest also to future historians. is signed by Past Grand Registrar and who knows encourage Mark A FAMILY AFFAIR AT RAC 811 John Gordon P.D.G.S. (Hon), Registrar 811 n 811 we are a fairly close knit bunch. Two father and son combinations. Two sets of brothers. One Ibrother and brother-in law. If you kick one of us we all limp!! The picture shows father and son .VE Comp W Ferguson exchanging jewels with son EC A Ferguson. To make it even more special for the Fergusons, Alan is inheriting his grandfathers jewel. Grandfather James Ferguson joined the Chapter in 1955 on affiliation from RAC 1000 (farmers Newtownards). He joined 811 Craft during the war when he came to work in the Aircraft industry and travelled from Newtownards and later Belfast to 811. He was EK in 1963. and remained in the Chapter until his death in 1969, Walter is also a Belfast man and was EK 1971, 1972 and 2011 taking over the reins from son Alan. A long and proud commitment from the Ferguson family to RAC 811. We are grateful for their service and dedication.

The Banner 9 t must surely be unusual to have a Father and Son serving in Left: William Connor. Centre: William and May Connor. Right: Ivan and Dawn. Ioffice in District Grand Chapter at the same time. We are fortunate in Antrim to have both William FATHER AND SON SERVING IN Connor and his son Ivan serving as DISTRICT GRAND CHAPTER District Grand Sword Bearer and Assistant Treasurer respectively in AT THE SAME TIME 2011. William joined the RUC in 1956 and initially served in Co. Fermanagh Priest. He is a Past Preceptor of Ivan is a member of where he joined Callowhill Lodge Rathmore Preceptory, Portrush. Preceptory No 178 where he was No 453. He has been a loyal Willie and his wife May have four Eminent Preceptor in 2008 and is member of the Lodge since joining children one of whom is Ivan our now Registrar. He recently became in 27th December 1961. He has District Assistant Grand Treasurer. a member of Breda Chapter of been a Past Provincial Grand Senior Ivan a Banker, joined St. John’s Prince Masons No. XXVII. Ivan and Warden in the Provincial Grand Masonic Lodge No 178 in 1977 his wife Dawn have two sons and a Lodge of Tyrone and Fermanagh in occupying the Chair in 1989. Ivan grandson Lucas. 1996. William or Willie joined also joined the Co. Down Lodge No In District Chapter we are Dalriada RAC 57 in 1979, Dalriada 86 also occupying the Chair. He delighted to have Willie and Ivan as Council of Knight Masons on 11 joined St. John’s RAC No 178 where loyal members and in the spirit of February 1983, was Excellent Chief he is a Past King. In addition to Royal Arch Masonry very excellent in 1996 and presently serves as membership of District Chapter companions. BERMUDA TRIANGLE M.E.C. Thomas M. Yarr

ome time ago I was approached by the Most SExcellent and Supreme Grand King to make a set of sceptres for the companions sitting under the Brinkworth Tucker and hand over Bermuda of the Grand Lodge of Irish Constitution in Bermuda. the sceptres. As there was no Ireland with 4 Lodges. Owing to difficulties in sourcing the Chapter meeting while we were in Freemasonry existed in brass required for the sceptre Bermuda we handed them to the Bermuda in 1744-45 (earliest heads I was unable to meet the PGM, Dr Bean and the other historical record), when the Earl of deadline set by the Most Excellent Companions who were available. Strathmore, Grand Master of and Supreme Grand King. The photograph shows me with England appointed a Provincial Fate then took over. My daughter Dr Bean and his Companions and Grand Master for the Islands of and son-in-law were going to a family also the Masonic Temple. Bermuda. Oldest Lodges are wedding in Bermuda later in the year Prince Alfred No 233 (EC), and my wife and I were invited to Freemasonry in Bermuda originally chartered under the baby-sit my grandson during the There are three Grand Lodges Moderns in 1792 as No 507, and wedding celebrations. We readily represented in Bermuda: The later in 1801 under the Ancients, agreed to accept the invitation. District Grand Lodge of Bermuda Lodge St. George No 200 (SC), Pressure was then on to make of the United Grand Lodge of date of Charter 7th August 1797 the sceptres and deliver them to England with 5 Lodges, The Grand and Atlantic Phoenix No 224 (EC) Bermuda. We arranged to meet up Lodge of Scotland with 3 Lodges date of Charter 9th August 1797. with Excellent Companion Gera under a Grand Superintendent The latter two celebrated 200 Bean and the PGM St. Clare and the Provincial Grand Lodge of years in 1997.

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ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER 177 335 • Broomhedge

he Installation of Officers for 2012, held on Friday, 25th November 2011, was a most Tenjoyable Convocation for the members of Broomhedge RAC No. 335 and their guests. The Director of Ceremonies, E. Comp. J.E. Gray, continues to ensure that the ritual is of the highest standard. Ex. Comp. Alan White was installed Excellent King, Comp. Connor Gray, High Priest and Comp. Robert McCrea, Chief Scribe. The Installing Officer was the inimitable V. E. Com. Tom Wilson. A very enjoyable installation dinner followed the Convocation and the usual toasts (left to right) R.E. Comp. W. McGrath, D.A.G.K., E. Comp. James were honoured. Campbell, D. of C., V.E. Comp. Allan Byers, H.P., E.Comp. David Hood, E.K., Ex. Comp. Gordon Whittle, C.S. and E. Comp. David Moss Keenan, Reg. and I.O. oyal Arch Chapter No. 177 (the Chapter with no name) held their Installation of Officers for R2012 on Thursday, 17th November 2011, in Arthur Square Masonic Hall. The Chapter's Registar, E. Comp. David Moss Keenan was the Installing Officer and carried out his duties in his usual competent style. E. Comp. David Hood was installed Excellent King, V. E. Comp. Allan Byers, High Priest and E. Comp. Gordon Whittle, Chief Scribe. An enjoyable installation dinner, (left to right) R.E. Comp. R Aughey, D.A.G.K., Comp. C. Gray, accompained by lively craic, followed the Convocation H.P., E. Comp. A. White, E.K., Comp. R. McCrea, C.S., R.E. Comp. and the usual toasts were honoured. W. McGrath, D.A.G.K. and V.E. Comp. T. Wilson, I.O.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER 326 • Oak

he Excellent King with the ME DGK MEC Cyril Ferguson and DAGK Richard Aughey Tpresented with regalia EC John Bennett DOC of Oak Chapter, No 326 Ballinderry on his appointment as VE DG Sword Bearer in DG Chapter of Antrim on Saturday 28th January 2012. E. Comp Bennett is an American from the State of Georgia and has served two thirteen month tours in Vietnam with the US Marine Corps. After completing his service he came to Northern Ireland in 1971, married his wife Ruth and settled near the Masonic Hall in Ballinderry and joined Oak Masonic Lodge 326. He served two periods as WM 1995 and 2010. He was exalted in Oak RAC 326 in due course and was installed EK in 2004. John progressed to Oak Council No 37 in 1997 and was installed EC in 2003 and 2008. John was invited to appointment as a Sales Executive. Presently John is self join Ulster Preceptory No 22, Holywood. employed. John was employed by the Good Year Company We in Oak Chapter are delighted at the honour until the factory closed, when he moved to Coca Cola conferred on both John and the Chapter and wish him as Purchasing Manager later moving to fill another well in his appointment in District Chapter.

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ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER 140 • Crumlin

Right: M.E. Comp Cyril Ferguson (left) M.E. District Grand King, who was the special guest at the installation of E. Comp. Ronald Fyffe-McFadden as E. King of Crumlin RAC 140, which was held in Crumlin Masonic Hall, and they are pictured here with V.E. Comp James McClurg, who was the Installing Officer. Below: E. Comp. Ronald Fyffe-McFadden, (seated 4th from right) who was installed as E. King of Crumlin RAC 140 is pictured here with Chapter Officers and guests who attended the Installation evening, which was held in Crumlin Masonic Hall. Photographs by Pat McGuigan Photography, Randalstown.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER 56 • Oldstone 162 • Islandmagee

he members of Royal Arch Chapter No. 56 decided they would like to do something to Tcelebrate their District's Centenary. The Excellent King and Council volunteered to think of something and make the necessary arrangements. The result was a Special Convocation on 27th October 2011 to which the members of Chapter No. 726 were invited. Chapter 56 members were also encouraged to invite Chapter friends. There was a disappointing turnout but those present enjoyed a superb evening of fellowship. The Excellent King and Council, E. Comp. Edgar Allen, Comp. David Allen, High Priest and Comp. Ronnie Steele, Chief Scribe had engaged (at their own expense) a caterer who put on a marvellous buffet. A collection was taken he installation at Islandmagee RAC No 162 up for the District Grand King's Charities (M. S. & was held on Saturday 19th November 2011. Samaritans) and, along with donations received from TThe E.K. J.R. Lindsay installed the officers. The some who couldn't attend, amounted to £300.00. A Principal District guests being the M.E. DGK E C cheque for this amount was presented to the District Ferguson and R.E. AGK G Wendell McGrath. After Grand King, M.E. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, at the the installation a festive board which was an excellent Centenary Convocation in the Provincial Masonic Hall meal, was held in the hall and enjoyed by all who were on Saturday 5th November 2011. fortunate to be there.

The Banner 17 CHAPTER REPORTS

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER 246 • Broughshane

roughshane RAC Installation took place on 6th Dec 2011 in Masonic Hall Broughshane. After Bthe Installation Convocation, as if by ‘magic’ the Lodge/Chapter room is transformed into a well presented Function Room where a fabulous Buffet supper is provided. This is followed by all the trimmings right down to the Stilton and Port, all supplied and served by the Companions of 246. The The Companions of 246 crowd around the Registrar, E. Comp. hall was packed for this event and no wonder, an John F. Pepperell anxious to get their money paid for the evening like this is not to be missed. Festive Board. ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER 1020 • Thiepval

Its ‘all hands on deck’ at Broughshane as the beautiful Meeting room is converted to a function room for the festive board.

Taken at Broughshane Masonic Hall on the Occasion of the Installation Convocation on 20th Dec. 2011. Left to right: The Newly Installed Officers, L to R;HP Comp. Roy Gilmore, DGK; Comp.John Burrows HP; Ex. Comp. Ronald Callaghan EK E. Comp Ian McCaughey,CS Comp. Thomas McClintock. EK; Ex. Comp.Boyd Douglas CS; DAGK.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER 450 • Portglenone

special memorial service held in the Portglenone Hall on Friday 28th October A2011 to mark the dedicating of a plaque to the late Excellent Companion John Bell. The service was conducted by V.E.C. Rev Warren Porter and a plaque was dedicated to the memory of Excellent Companion John Bell. E. Comp. Stephen Bell carries The newly Installed Officers of Portglenone RAC 450 with the Installing Officer V. Ex. Comp. David Kyle, Past DGSOTT. on the stalwart work of his father in Portglenone RAC 450. The plaque was commissioned by Portglenone Lodge and Portglenone Chapter. Those photographed at the commemoration were (from left to right): Very E. Comp. Ken Crawford (District Grand Steward), Right E. Comp. Wendell McGrath (District Assistant Grand King). V.E. Comp David Kyle (Past District Sup. Of Tab.), E. Comp. Stephen Bell (RAC 450), E. Comp. Freddie Bell (RAC 450), Most E. Comp. James Lynch (Grand High Priest), Robert Bell (RAC 450).

18 www.dgracantrim.org CHAPTER REPORTS

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER 551 • Glandore 615 • Larne

arne R. A. Chapter No. 615 was one of the Chapters who were party to the formation of Lthe District Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Antrim in 1911. In recognition of this fact, the Chapter was presented with a 100th Centenary Certificate at the Centenary Convocation held in November 2011. The recipient E. King, E.C. Robert Robinson, had the Certificate framed and is pictured presenting it to the current E. King, E.C. Anderson T. McIlwaine, at Above and below: Glandore RAC Installation. the January convocation of the Chapter. Also included are Comp. Edward Geary, High Priest, Comp. Robert Hunter, Chief Scribe, and other members of the Chapter. The Certificate has been entrusted to the Management Committee of the Larne Masonic Hall to arrange a suitable location for it to be put on display.

ROYAL ARCH CHAPTER 97 • Arthur Square

n 21st October 2011 the M.E. District Grand King of Antrim M.E.Comp. E Cyril Ferguson Opresented 3 companions with their 50 year jewels at the Chapter Convocation, in Arthur Square, Belfast. The companions E.Comp. Tom Ferrett, E.Comp. Wesley Nevin (seated) and V.E. Comp. John Kielty, Chapter Registrar are shown with the DGK.

Companion Douglas Wilson (Dougie) Ross being presented with his 50-year Jewel and Certificate by E. Comp. Robert Robinson, Excellent King, Chapter No. 615. Also in attendance were E.C. James Parke, High Priest, Comp. Edward Geary, Chief Scribe, and other members of the Chapter. Comp. Ross, who is now the Chapter’s second most Senior member, received his Mark Master Mason Degree on 13th January 1961 and his Royal Arch Degree on 14th April 1961. On occasions, Comp. Ross acted as organist for the Chapter. His membership of his Craft Lodge, M.L. No. 514, stretches back to 1953.

The Banner 19 Historical Presentation A CENSER OF FIRE

By M.E.C. Billy Brown MBE DGDOC, RAC 313

INTRODUCTION his forehead before the priests in ancients of the house of Israel, and In the Royal Arch installation the house of the LORD, from in the midst of them stood Jaazaniah mention is made of a Censer of Fire beside the incense altar. the son of Shaphan, with every man and this short article looks at the Numbers 16:39 And Eleazar his censer in his hand; and a thick meaning of the word and its use in the priest took the brasen censers, cloud of incense went up. both Ancient and Modern times. wherewith they that were burnt had Numbers 16:18 And they offered; and they were made broad THE WORD CENSER took every man his censer, and put plates for a covering of the altar: In the King James Version censer fire in them, and laid incense 1 Kings 7:50 And the bowls, is the translation of two Hebrew thereon, and stood in the door of and the snuffers, and the basons, words, machtah, and miqTereth. the tabernacle of the congregation and the spoons, and the censers of Censers are any type of vessels with Moses and Aaron. pure gold; and the hinges of gold, designed for burning incense. They Numbers 16:39 And Eleazar both for the doors of the inner vary greatly in size, form, and the priest took the brasen censers, house, the most holy place, and for material of construction. They may wherewith they that were burnt had the doors of the house, to wit, of consist of simple earthenware offered; and they were made broad the temple. bowls or fire pots to intricately plates for a covering of the altar: Hebrews 9:4 Which had the carved silver or gold vessels, small Revelation 8:3 And another golden censer, and the ark of the table top objects a few centimetres angel came and stood at the altar, covenant overlaid round about tall to as many as several metres having a golden censer; and there with gold, wherein was the golden high. In many cultures, burning was given unto him much incense, pot that had manna, and Aaron's incense has spiritual and religious that he should offer it with the rod that budded, and the tables of connotations, and this influences the prayers of all saints upon the golden the covenant; altar which was before the throne. design and decoration of the censer. Numbers 4:14 And they shall Censing is the practice of Revelation 8:5 And the angel put upon it all the vessels thereof, took the censer, and filled it with swinging a censer suspended from wherewith they minister about it, chains towards something or fire of the altar, and cast it into the even the censers, the fleshhooks, earth: and there were voices, and someone, typically an icon or and the shovels, and the basons, all thunderings, and lightnings, and an person, so that smoke from the the vessels of the altar; and they earthquake. burning incense travels in that shall spread upon it a covering of direction. Burning incense generally badgers' skins, and put to the IN THE EARLY CHRISTIAN represents the prayers of the staves of it. CHURCH people rising towards Heaven. Ezekiel 8:11 And there stood In the Roman Catholic and some IN BIBLICAL TIMES before them seventy men of the other Churches, a censer is often In Biblical Times the censer is called a thurible, and used during mentioned in the King James important offices (benedictions, Version where it reads:- processions, important masses). A For burning incense. common design for a thurible is a Leviticus 10:1 And Nadab and metal container, about the size and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took shape of a coffee-pot, suspended on either of them his censer, and put chains. The bowl contains hot coals, fire therein, and put incense and the incense is placed on top of thereon, and offered strange fire these. The thurible is then swung before the LORD, which he back and forth on its chains, commanded them not. spreading the fragrant smoke . 2 Chronicles 26:19 Then A famous thurible is the Uzziah was wroth, and had a Botafumeiro, in the cathedral of censer in his hand to burn incense: Santiago de Compostela. Suspended and while he was wroth with the from the ceiling of the cathedral, the priests, the leprosy even rose up in swinging of this 5-foot (1.5 m) high,

26 www.dgracantrim.org 55 kilogram silver vessel is quite a the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), sight, possibly only surpassed by the dated to the early 8th century. spectacle of a lone man hurling Incense burners were used in himself at the swinging vessel to Japan's Edo period, in the 17th bring it to a stop. century (1603 to 1867). One of the explanations for the SYMBOLISM OF THE great size of the Botafumeiro is CENSER IN US MASONRY that in the early days it was used In the United States the pot of to freshen the air in the cathedral Incense plays an important part in after being visited by droves of the Third Degree Lecture where it travel-weary pilgrims. is explained in terms oif being an IN THE EASTERN emblem of a pure heart. A pot of ORTHODOX CHURCH Incense is also used in the 23rd In the Eastern Orthodox Degree Jewel. Church, censers are similar in design to the Western thurible, CONCLUSION often with the addition of 12 small Incense is often used to purify bells. The latter symbolize the the air. In many religious ceremonies preaching of the Apostles and for this is taken a step further, whereby this reason the censer with bells is incense purifies the people attending normally used only by a Bishop. heaven and earth with the union the religious ceremony (for example They are used much more often, made by earth’s prayers and the incensing of the priest and typically at every vespers, matins, heaven’s receiving them. congregation in a Roman Catholic and Divine Liturgy. If a deacon is Some Orthodox Christians use a High Mass). When the Israelites present, he typically does much of standing censer on their home altars. wandered the wilderness for forty the censing; otherwise, the job falls A censer of Anglo-Saxon origin, years, they built a Tabernacle, a tent to the priest. Unordained servers was found at North Elmham in sanctuary used by the Israelites or acolytes are permitted to 1786, at a place called Tower during the Exodus, and which they prepare and carry the censer, but Ditches the site of the Anglo- were able to put together and may not swing it during prayers. Saxon church, of which only the disassemble quickly as occasion One commonly sung psalm during ruins now survive, but known to required. Hence the furnishings were the censing is "Let my prayer arise have been in existence between simple but deeply symbolic. On the in Thy sight as incense, and let the AD 803 and 840. The censer is altar, offerings of fruit and other lifting up of my hands be an linked to other Anglo-Saxon items were made, put next to a pot evening sacrifice." These are the metalwork and sculpture of the of incense, so that the proof of one’s two basic meanings of the incense. mid-ninth century by its stylistic gratitude through prayers would rise The vessel, censer or Poorvahr as features. It is possible that it was with the smoke to Him. it is called in Armenian itself has lost or discarded during the Viking The idea of smoke rising to symbolism. It has two basic parts: raids on East Anglia during the Heaven is also extensively used in the lower, where the incense is 840s and later in the 9th century. many religions and cultures, burned and the upper. The lower Censers in the Middle Ages especially with funerals (like India). part symbolizes the world. The were often made of gold and silver In Central American cultures, the upper part, which is dome-shaped, and enriched with numerous details association of smoke to clouds symbolizes heaven. Four chains, of most elaborate ornamentation. meant that incenses were often symbolizing the Holy Trinity and In the archives or inventories of used to invoke rain. It is also one Godhead unite the two parts. many Continental and English interesting to note that a lesser There are 12 bells hanging on cathedrals (such as St. John Lateran, known Egyptian God, Dedun (a.k.a. these chains (3 on each), Trier, Louvain, Lincoln, and York Tatunen) is the Egyptian God of representing the 12 disciples. Minster) minute descriptions are wealth and incense, and is always So, when incense is burned in given of some ancient specimens in portrayed with a censer on his the censer, it is we, the inhabitants the possession of these churches. head (symbol of purity and pure of this lower world, who are CENSERS IN OTHER thought). The ashes from burnt praying and our prayers are CULTURES incense was sometimes consumed ascending to heaven with the In the Far East Censers were to ward off diseases. intercession of the disciples. also used in religious ceremonies. Incense is often associated with Poorvahr thus is the unity of Chinese censers were common in St. Lawrence.

The Banner 27 THE Officers for 2012 Production BBaannnneerr Team Journal of the District Grand Royal Arch Chapter of Antrim Grand King: M.E. Comp. E. Cyril Ferguson, 645 Deputy Grand King: R.E. Comp. Jon. McA. Pollock, 57 Editor: Bill Brown (313) Assistant Grand King: R.E. Comp. Richard Aughey, 565 8 Donegall Crescent, Whitehead BT38 9LS Assistant Grand King: R.E. Comp. G. Wendell McGrath, 56 Tel: 028 9337 8404 Grand High Priest: R. E. Comp. W. Taylor Scott, 260 Email: [email protected] Grand Chief Scribe : R. E. Comp. John T. Price, 489 Assistant Editor: Drew Coid (189) Grand Treasurer: R. E. Comp. Thomas J. McCurley, 613 1 Kelvin Close, Dan’s Road, Ballymena BT42 2NZ Grand Registrar: R. E. Comp. W. James Lynch, Tel: 028 2564 4734 574/1020 Chapters that meet in Freemasons’ Hall, Arthur D.G. Director of V. E. Comp. William T. Brown Square , send articles to: Ceremonies: M.B.E., 313 Alex Ireland (Chapter 31), V. E. Comp. George M. Graham, 431 22 Silverbirch Road, Bangor, BT19 6EU. V. E. Comp. Ronald S. Barnes, 353 Tel: 9146 3281 Grand Chaplain: V. E. Comp. Henry Gilmore, 466 Chapters that meet in Crumlin Road and Ligoniel V. E. Comp. Rev. H. James Parker Masonic Halls, Belfast , send articles to: M.A. ,763 Jim Patterson (Chapter 314), Tel: 9086 2214 V. E. Comp. William Halliday, 763 Chapters that meet in and V. E. Comp. Jonathan M. Smith, 177 Whiteabbey Masonic Centre send articles to: Asst. Grand Treasurer : V. E. Comp. W. Ivan Conner, 178 Bill Halliday (Chapter 763), Asst. Grand Registrar: V. E. Comp. James McClurg, 140 4 Carnhill Park, Newtownabbey, BT36 6LD. D. G. Captain of V. E. Comp. Russell Hayes, 1008 Tel: 9084 0112 the Host : Chapters that meet in Lisburn area send articles to: D.G. Superindentent V. E. Comp. William McMordie, 45 James McClurg (Chapter 140), of the Tabernacle: 7 Sycamore Road, , Crumlin, BT29 4JE. D.G. Royal Arch V. E. Comp. James Porter, 180 Tel: 9082 5320 Captain: Chapters that meet in North Antim area send D.G. Captain of the V. E. Comp. Thomas B. Rainey, 378 articles to: Scarlet Veil: J. McA. Pollock (Chapter 57), D.G. Captain of the V. E. Comp. James M. McKelvey, 88 3 Chestnut Grove, Ballymoney, BT53 7AT. Purple Veil: Tel: 2766 2590 D.G. Captain of the V. E. Comp. Colin E. Holliday, 783 Chapters that meet in Larne and Carrick area send Blue Veil : articles to: Grand Steward: V. E. Comp. William Crawford, 450 Bill Brown (Chapter 313), V. E. Comp. Robert J. Smyth 512 8 Donegall Crescent, Whitehead BT38 9LS. V. E. Comp. Hugh Millar 246/537 Tel: 9337 8404 V. E. Comp. Alan McDade U.D. 156 Chapters that meet in Ballymena and Antrim area Grand Organist: V. E. Comp. Dr. Norman Close, 275 send articles to: V. E. Comp. Maurice McQuitty, 149 Drew Coid (Chapter 189), V. E. Comp. Neil Ritchie, 180 1 Kelvin Close, Dan’s Road, Ballymena, BT42 2NZ. D.G. Chapter V. E. Comp. James S. Mitchell, 317 Tel: 2564 4734 Standard Bearer : Grand Sword Bearer: V. E. Comp. John R. Bennett 326 D.G. King’s V. E. Comp. Daniel W. Craig 162 Standard Beare r: Grand Janitor: V. E. Comp. J. H. Thompson, 551 Grand Physician: V. E. Comp. Dr. Edmund Henderson, 17 V. E. Comp. Dr. J. Clifford McMillan, 51 Articles Wanted Grand Inspectors: Michael Alexander, Allan Byers, David Caruth, Clarence If you have any articles for the Banner L. F. Gibson, David Henderson, Davis Little, Samuel G. magazine please forward them, together Matthews, Cyril McBratney, Stephen McCormick, Alan with any accompanying photographs, to the D. McLorie, H. Crawford Mitchell, W. Ernest Moore, editor at [email protected] James S. Patterson, Mervyn Torrens, Thomas M. Yarr DCG Publications Ltd. Tel: 028 9055 1811.