On Monday 9 September 2024, the Brethren of the Lodge welcomed the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, Most Worshipful Brother Rodney L. McCurley.
The occasion was a truly memorable one, as the Grand Master had the privilege of presenting a 50-year jewel and certificate to Worshipful Brother Billy Campbell.
There was an excellent turnout of Brethren for this special evening, including the Provincial Grand Lodge Secretary, Right Worshipful Brother Richard Totton and the Provincial Assistant Grand Master of Antrim, R.W. Bro. Paul Harvey.
Worshipful Brother Billy Campbell, was initiated into Freemasonry exactly 50 years ago to the day, on 9 September 1974, at the same Lodge. Billy's father was also a Freemason, however the secrets and mysteries of Freemasonry were never passed down to Billy by his father, who sadly passed away when he was 15 years old. A couple of years later his mother also passed away, meaning that he was raised by his Uncle Bob, also a dedicated Freemason.
In addition to the 50-year milestone, the Grand Master also presented a Master Mason's Certificate to one of our newest members, Bro. Chris Morrow.
W. Bro Billy Campbell remained on centre stage, as he explained the significance of the certificate, and then shared a touching moment, showing his own Master Mason's Certificate from 1975, along with his father's certificate, dated 1946. Remarkably, the design and layout of these certificates have remained unchanged through the years, a testament to the enduring traditions of our fraternity.
Following the ceremony, the Brethren gathered for the Festive Board, where stories of old were shared. V.W. Bro. Frank Craig and the cousin of W. Bro. Billy Campbell; V.W. Bro. Terence Luney, delighted the room with tales from W. Bro Campbell's past, adding to the warmth and camaraderie of the evening. W. Bro Billy Campbell also spoke fondly of his time as a Mason and the lifelong impact it has had on him.
Educated at Belmont Primary School, Sullivan Preparatory School and Sullivan Upper School Holywood, Billy trained for three years in publishing and marketing with London Progressive Advertising Ltd and with Belfast Telegraph Newspapers Ltd. In 1969 he registered and set up his own publishing business under the brand name of Tudor. He ran the business for 45 years, in the early years locally and later internationally initially as its managing director and later as chairman.
Congratulations to W. Bro Billy Campbell on his incredible 50 years of service, and welcome to Bro. Chris Morrow as he begins his Masonic journey. The night truly encapsulated the spirit of Freemasonry.
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