In a momentous occasion marked by camaraderie and a deep sense of tradition, the Tower of
Lebanon 169 Masonic Lodge in Belfast proudly hosted the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of
Ireland, the Most Worshipful Brother Rodney L. McCurley, and the Assistant Provincial Grand Master
of Antrim, Right Worshipful Brother Paul Harvey. The purpose of their visit was to honour three
esteemed members of the lodge, recognising their remarkable commitment and dedication spanning
five decades.
RW Brother Ken Porter, the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Ireland Rodney L. McCurley, W B John Joseph (Ian) Leonard, RW the Assistant Provincial Grand Master Paul Harvey, and W B Les Allan
The Grand Master and Assistant Provincial Grand Master presented prestigious 50 Year Jewels and
certificates to three exemplary members of the Tower of Lebanon 169: The Right Worshipful Brother
Ken Porter, Worshipful Brother John Joseph Leonard, and Worshipful Brother Les Allan. This
significant milestone not only reflects the individual commitment of these distinguished Masons but
also symbolises the enduring strength of the Masonic brotherhood within the lodge.
The ceremony, held in Arthur Square Masonic Hall, the heart of Belfast, was attended by a
congregation of Masonic brethren, and friends. The atmosphere in the lodge was charged with a
sense of pride and accomplishment as these long-serving members were recognised for their
unwavering dedication to the principles and values of Freemasonry.
The Right Worshipful Brother Ken Porter, Worshipful Brother John Joseph Leonard, and Worshipful
Brother Les Allan were visibly moved as they received their 50 Year Jewels and certificates. Each of
them has played a pivotal role in the growth and prosperity of Tower of Lebanon 169, contributing
not only to the lodge but also to the broader Masonic community.
The event was graced by the presence of many distinguished guests, adding to the grandeur of the
occasion. The Tower of Lebanon 169 Masonic Lodge is renowned for its rich history and commitment
to upholding the tenets of Freemasonry, and the presence of such esteemed figures only reinforced
the significance of the celebration.
In his address, Grand Master Rodney L. McCurley commended the Tower of Lebanon 169 for its longstanding commitment to the principles of Freemasonry and its unwavering dedication to the
Province of Antrim in particular. He emphasised the importance of brotherhood and the values that
have been passed down through generations within the Masonic fraternity.
The Assistant Provincial Grand Master of Antrim, The Right Worshipful Paul Harvey, echoed these
sentiments, expressing his admiration for the Tower of Lebanon 169 and its members. He highlighted
the positive impact that the lodge has had on Freemasonry over the years, emphasising the
importance of continuing to uphold the values of Freemasonry.
As the ceremony concluded, the Tower of Lebanon 169 continued its tradition of fostering fellowship
and promoting the principles of Freemasonry. The celebration served as a testament to the enduring
strength of the Masonic brotherhood and the invaluable contributions of its longstanding members.
The Tower of Lebanon 169 looks forward to the future with a renewed sense of purpose, guided by
the principles of brotherhood, integrity, and service that have been the foundation of its success for
over five decades.
W Bro Gerard Curley
Secretary – Tower of Lebanon Masonic Lodge 169, Belfast, Antrim.