12th July 1995 Resolutions

THE FAITH: The Orange Institution is set for the defence of Protestantism. This is true to the intention of Orangemen who are committed to the Christian faith with its Reformation emphasis on a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as the Lord and Saviour of mankind. There are also the Protestant beliefs in freedom of conscience; the priesthood of all believers and the primary place and purpose of the Holy Bible in Christian faith and conduct.

For two centuries the Orange Institution has stood firm for the faith which is both of the early church and the Protestant Reformation; and in its practical support of the churches committed to the proclamation of this faith.

Our resolve is to use our brotherhood with greater enthusiasm and zeal and with the Protestant churches to confront people with the claims of Jesus Christ on their lives and to have them enjoy the advantages of knowing Him.

THE STATE: The political philosophy of the Orange Institution has been stated precisely, and constantly. It is unionist. The culture of Orangeism is so obviously British that there can be no doubt of its commitment to the Union. The determination to ensure its continuance is as strong as ever. We abhor the very suggestion of a united Ireland however new, modern and accommodating it has promised to become. We are not going in that direction.

We refuse to accept the Framework Document as a way forward for unionists. We share the view that the document was an attempt to placate Sinn Fein, the S.D.L.P. and the United States Government. The distrust we have of our Government in its dealing with those whose antagonism to unionism is patent has been well founded. Its treatment of the unionists and all other peace loving people, and its willingness to bow to the pressures of foreigners to parley with republicans whose pedigree in terrorism is unequalled, is to be condemned. Such attitudes will have far reaching consequences.

In view of the blatant sectarian nature of the contents of the "Proposals for Change" Document published by the Department of Education we call upon all concerned people to use all their power to oppose these disastrous proposals and we call upon the Government to stop encouraging sectarianism through the financing of the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools.

We resolve to support vigorously the unionist cause as proper, legitimate and beneficial for this country. We recognise the necessity of a positive defence of unionism. We deplore any negativism which makes us appear to be self indulgent, self serving and incapable of facing up to the challenges of a divided society.

We can live with our neighbours, sharing the responsibilities of good citizenship at every level. Real and lasting peace, free from threat, suspicion and distrust, is our goal. We hope to share it with all other good citizens.

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