An Armagh-based Orange Lodge is on a “Mission” to share their views on what it means to be an Orangeman and a Christian in today’s world.
Hosted by Reverend Sam Finlay and organised by Redrock Purple Star Heroes LOL 788, the ‘Back to Basics Mission’ will take place across three evenings this month.
Across the course of those evenings – from January 27 to 29 – attendees will hear from three key speakers, Brothers Mark Neale, Johnston Reid and David Scott who will take part in interviews, each with a different theme to address.
First to speak on January 27, Bro. Mark Neale – of LOL 547 Ballynahinch Royal Blues – will discuss the broad topic of culture under the banner of ‘Why is the world in a mess?’
Answering the question ‘Where have the foundations gone?’ Bro. Johnston Reid – of LOL 325 Pomeroy Faith Defenders – will then speak on the Church on Wednesday 28.
Concluding the Mission, Bro. David Scott – of LOL 353 Milford Temperance – will discuss the question ‘What is it all to me?’ through an open conversation on personal faith.
Describing the Mission, Redrock Purple Star Heroes said: “This wont be the old-school type Mission. No singing for example. What it’s about is talking to people as normal people, addressing the issues and discussing our faith in general and its place.
“Over three nights, each night will begin with a few words of prayer and a short address (not a sermon) from our presiding clergyman Rev Sam Finlay.”
After each man has spoken to their topic, the floor will be opened to take questions for both clergy and interviewee.
Explaining the system for questioning, they added: “We are going to have a box for the submission of questions at the start of each night too for anyone ’embarrassed’.”
Expressing their hopes for the event, the Lodge continued: “Something very different, but equally something that we think might, even CAN, make a difference.
“We would love to see people from all over the Province come along. While Orange-centred it is of course not JUST for Orangemen.”
The Mission will be held at Redrock Orange Hall at 7.30pm each night and all are invited to attend.
