Ballinlea Orange Hall - a beacon of faith

A new Orange Hall which was officially opened and dedicated at the weekend, has been described as a "beacon of true faith in which to uphold and hold fast to the faith of past and present members," a clergyman has said.
By The Newsroom
Published 6th Jun 2010, 20:22 BST
Updated 8th Jun 2010, 10:17 BST

Speaking at a ceremony to mark the completion of Ballinlea Orange Hall, Rev. Dr. Paul Reid, Minister of Old Presbyterian Church of Larne and Killwaughter, was reminding those present of the sacrifices made by forefathers who, he stressed, in their hour of need never failed in this world and became role models for others to follow.

Dr. Reid said: “This hall gives much hope to this Lodge today. It brings you into the 21st century and we all congratulate you on that.”

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There was much pride when the Worshipful Master of Ballinlea LOL1511, Gardiner Kane, rose to introduce the proceedings with a large crowd of brethren, bandsmen and spectators, many of whom were seated in the warm sunshine.

Outlining the programme, Bro. Kane spoke of the commitment and effort put in by many and said the outcome was a fine hall which all could be proud of.

The official opening ceremony was carried out by Bro. Billy Atkinson, from Drumlee LOL 1072, who, it was revealed, had waived his professional fees in the design of the building.

Before turning the key, Bro. Atkinson described it as a “wonderful occasion.”

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“I count this as an honour to be invited in what is a milestone in the history of the Lodge. It is great credit to the brethren of Ballinlea for their foresight in achieving what is a splending building. I congratulate you on your sterling work carried out over these past four years. I trust the hall will serve many other groups as well as the band and Lodge,” Bro. Atkinson said before wishing the Lodge God’s richest blessing for the years ahead.

The Grand Lecturer of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, Rt. Worshipful Bro. Sidney McIldoon said the Lodge, founded in January 1958, could now stand back after six long years and relax as well as admire the fruits of their labour.

He said it was in April 2004 when work began and the result stood proud. Br. McIldoon said he understood that almost all of the work was carried out by voluntary labour and in a reference to founder members, he said if Gardiner Kane’s father had been alive today he would have been a very proud man to see the vision of a new hall come to fruition.

He said he hoped succeeding generations would appreciate what has been passed on to them.

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Rt. Worshipful Bro. Robert McIlroy, the Past County Grand Master and Bro. William Johnston, WDM of Ballycastle District, also spoke and voiced their praise and approval of the hall.

For two of the Lodge’s founding members, Bros. Robert Reilly and Sandy McMullan, it was a day of pride. Bro. Reilly was given the honour of cutting the ribbon with his grand-daughter, Emma, also playing a part in the proceedings. Bro. McMullan was presented with the key to hand over to Bro. Atkinson while Bro. Billy Gillen had the honour of unveiling a plaque inside the building.

In a glowing tribute to Bro. McMullan, Bro. Kane said he was not joking when he revealed that “almost every barrowful of mortar had been mixed by Sandy.”

An exhibition inside the building captured much attention with display boards carrying stories and pictures of the activities of the Lodge and band down the years.

Others who contributed to the programme included Past Master, Bro. Geoffrey McAllister, Bro. Ronnie Carson, Rev. Canon AA Johns.

A short parade followed with around half a dozen bands taking part.