Orange Institution marks Remembrance Day

The Orange Institution fell silent at 11am on Thursday, 11th of November, for the annual Remembrance Day Service.

In a return to normal proceedings after a much-changed Act of Remembrance in 2020 due to Covid-19, representatives of the Orange Institution gathered in the Memorial Garden at Schomberg House, Belfast, to pay their respects.

Grand Master Edward Stevenson and Joan Beggs, Grand Mistress of the Association of Loyal Orangewomen of Ireland, lay wreaths. Pictures: Graham Baalham-Curry

The annual wreath-laying event, which is organised in partnership with Thiepval Memorial Lodge LOL 1916, included a short parade and was attended by dozens of Brethren from across the jurisdiction of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland.

Grand Master Wor. Bro. Edward Stevenson laid a wreath on behalf of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland during a service conducted by Wor. Bro. Rev. Alistair Smyth, Grand Chaplain.

The Grand Master said: “It is always with a heavy heart that we gather on 11th November each year to remember the sacrifice of so many during the two World Wars and other conflicts.

“Everyone gathered here today will have their own thoughts and memories about events of the past and loved ones lost. It is important that we remember those who gave so much in various theatres of war, and in defence of Northern Ireland. As Grand Master, and as a Loyal Institution, we pledge that such sacrifice will not be air brushed from the pages of history.”

Wreaths were also laid on behalf of the Junior Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, The Association of Loyal Orangewomen of Ireland, Thiepval Memorial LOL 1916 and Cregagh Defenders LOL 1588.

In a separate ceremony, a wreath was laid at the Memorial Window by Mrs Joan Farrell, a UDR widow, in memory of the 338 Orange Brethren and one Sister who were murdered during the Troubles.