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Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland
  Orange Standard

American Links With Markethill Lodge

Article 5 ~ March 2004

There was something special for brethren of a Co. Armagh Lodge at their recent monthly meeting - a visit by an American Orangeman.

Members of Redrock Purple Star Heroes L.O.L. No. 788 extended a special welcome to Bro. Andrew Mass, a member of Boyne Defenders L.O.L. No. 434, Detroit, Michigan, who had been in Northern Ireland on a visit after the New Year celebrations.

Andrew gladly accepted the invitation to attend L.O.L. No. 788's monthly Lodge meeting. Andrew had initially formed a connection with Markethill District in 2002 when Kilcluney Volunteers Flute Band accompanied his Lodge during the main Scottish Orange celebrations in Glasgow.

During his most recent visit he stayed with band members.

At the Lodge meeting, Worshipful Master Bro. Mervyn Dougan welcomed Andrew to Northern Ireland and expressed his pleasure that the Orange fraternity could still boast a strong presence in the United States.

Normal Lodge business was then transacted and at the conclusion of the meeting Bro. Mass was presented with a number of souvenirs.

Following the meeting the brethren retired for refreshments where Bro. Mass enjoyed the fellowship of the Redrock brethren, sharing anecdotes from the Orange Order in the USA. The revelation that many members of L.O.L. 434 have to fly several hundred miles to attend Lodge meetings was particularly greeted with interest by the Redrock Orangemen.

It's something that should make Orangemen throughout Northern Ireland examine their consciences. Many Orangemen in the USA and Canada think nothing of travelling hundreds of miles to Lodge meetings, and feel privileged to do so.

Here in Northern Ireland far too many Orangemen do not bother to attend monthly Lodge meetings, even though they may live within a few hundred yards of the Orange hall. Not good enough, and as this is the start of a New Year, Ulster Orangemen should reflect on the loyalty and dedication of men like Bro. Mass, and seek to emulate his enthusiasm.

It is hoped that Andrew will once again get the chance to visit Northern Ireland and perhaps take part in the Co. Armagh Twelfth demonstration - with Redrock Lodge of course!

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