Introduction
Imperial Grand Black Chapter
of the British Commonwealth
The Grand Black Chapter of Ireland was established
in 1797, two years after the Battle of the Diamond, which had
led to the formation of the Orange Order. During this period there
was a great threat to Protestantism. While the Institution has
a strong religious foundation, firmly based on the teachings of
the Holy Bible, its members have no illusions about the gulf that
exists between Protestant and Roman Catholic doctrines and opinions
– a gulf that continues to dominate political and religious
life in Northern Ireland to this day.
The Royal Black Institution was formed in September
1797. This Order of Christian Knighthood evolved from earlier
Orders of Chivalry which flourished in the times of the Crusades
and in early Reformation days.
Since its inception the Institution has spread
to and developed in Scotland, England, Canada, Australia, New
Zealand, the United States of America, Ghana and Togo in West
Africa.
The tiered structure of the Institution
has as its foundation the local Preceptory (lodge). This unit
elects officers who represent their membership at the next tier,
namely a District Chapter. The District Chapter Officers form
a County or Provincial Grand Chapter. The officers of these units
constitute the membership of the governing body know as the Imperial
Grand Council. This Council is recognised by all members of the
Imperial Black Commonwealth; which is the Title of Institution;
as being the supreme authority with the Sovereign Grand Master
as the head of this International organisation.
The administrative offices are located
at Brownlow House, Lurgan, County Armagh.
The aims and objectives of the Royal Black
Institution are solely based on Christian teaching as found in Holy
Scripture and on the principles of the Reformation and is therefore
non-political. The members are encouraged to study the Scriptures
and to participate fully in the life and witness of the Christian
Church. They are also encouraged to act charitably and to be good
citizens of their respective countries. Unfortunately,
early records are scant. The earliest printed records we know
of at present where written by Sir Knt Edward Rogers in November
25th 1857. Sir Knt Edward Rogers was the Grand Registrar in County
Armagh when the Grand Black Chapter met in Carleton Street Orange
Hall on the 14th September 1846. Since then there are printed
reports available, which give a valuable insight into the progress
of the Institution. On 14th September 1846 the Grand Black Chapter
held a meeting in Portadown. The meeting brought about the reconstitution
of the Grand Black Chapter. This was to bring new life and vitality
to the Institution leading to its development throughout the Empire.
As a result the name was changed to the more embracing title of
“The Imperial Grand Black Chapter of the British Commonwealth.”
Click here
to read the History of the Royal Black Institution
Introduction by Sir Knight
Robert Wallace Worshipful District Master of Portadown Royal Black
District Chapter No 5.
You are most welcome to our District Web site,
which we hope you will find most interesting.The purpose of this
Web site is as follows :-
1 - To spread the message of
Jesus Christ Crucified, and Risen again for the Salvation of all
mankind.
2 - To promote the (The
Mission Statement of the Royal Black Institution) and
the (Ideals
of a Sir Knight) as stated forthwith.
3 - To promote the Charitable
outreach of the Royal Black Institution in general and this District
Chapter in particular.
4 - To research the history
of this District Chapter and it’s Preceptories.
5 - Provide pictures and items
of interest in Royal Black matters.
6 - Facilitate links to other
Loyal Order web-sites
other Royal
7 - Include other items of scriptural
interest.
Right - WDM Sir Knt Robert Wallace,
(fourth from RHS) and all of the principle District Officers within
Portadown Royal Black District Chapter No. 5
Click
here to see a more detailed image
N.B. Portadown, Co, Armagh, is situated
beside the river Bann, quite central in Northern Ireland, which
is an integral part of Great Britain, it is often referred as
the Hub of the North. It is inhabited in the main, by a kind and
generous people, who are renowned for their Hospitality.
We would heartily invite to sign
our Guest
book , your comments or Contributory Articles would
be most welcome.
Wishing you all God’s Richest
Blessing.
Sir Knt Robert Wallace - Worshipful
District Master
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