Service to mark Battle of the Diamond

The battle happend September 21, 1795 and led to the formation of the first Oranges lodges and the Orange Order as it is known today. The annual Diamond service is organised by three lodges which were formed and had their warrants issued on the day of the Battle. The three lodges organising the service are St. Aidan’s True Blues Kilmore LOL 35 (Portadown District), The Diamond Memorial LOL 85 and The Diamond Grange LOL118 (Both Loughgall District). The service is organised annually to the Sunday nearest to the anniversary date of September 21.

The service is taking place in the Diamond Memorial Orange Hall, Loughgall at 3.30pm this Sunday.

Brethren, Sisters and Juniors will assemble at Redmond’s Corner on the Moy Road, Loughgall at 2.45pm sharp. The parade will be lead by Sgt. White Memorial Melody Flute Band from the Bush, Dungannon. This parade is well known for the number of Sisters that take part. All visiting Brethren, Sisters and Juniors are very welcome to attend.

Among those attending will be officers and members of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, County Armagh Grand Orange Lodge, Loughgall District, Portadown District along with members from various visiting Districts.

The service starts at 3.30pm and the preacher will be Brother Cecil Allen, Chaplain for Portadown District. The organ playing will be performed by Trevor Sharpe and the collection will be in aid of the Lord Enniskillen Memorial Orange Orphan Society.