In a ceremony that can only be described as a family affair, W. Bro Sam Bryans was officially installed as Worshipful Master at Craigantlet Lodge of Friendship No. 486 for 2024. The twist? The man bestowing the honour was none other than his older brother, W. Bro. Robert Bryans.
The Installation which was held at Galwally House, Belfast, was also witnessed by the guest of honour, the Provincial Assistant Grand Master; Right Worshipful Brother Frank Williams. Other Brethren in attendance included a group of Brethren hailing from the Lodge Neptune Kilwinning No. 442 at Saltcoats, Scotland, and a Brother from Lodge “Zur Werkstatt” No. 979 from Berlin, Germany.
Following the ceremonial installation, W. Bro. Sam Bryans invested and proclaimed the Lodge Officers for the year 2024. The proceedings, conducted with excellent ritual, set the stage for an evening of camaraderie, tradition, and a touch of Bryans family legacy.
As the night unfolded, a formal dinner became the backdrop for tales of the Bryans brothers' escapades, including the revelation that a Belfast pedestrian crossing owes its existence to W. Bro. Robert Bryans' encounter with destiny at that very spot.
The brothers regaled the attendees with stories of their family's enduring connection to the Lodge, with Uncle Freddie Bryans reigning as Worshipful Master in 1978 and Uncle Billy Bryans following suit in 1985.
In a heart-warming display of generosity, a charity collection during the evening raised an impressive £300 for Masonic charities, a testament to the Lodge's commitment to making a positive impact.
Addressing the gathering, Provincial Assistant Grand Master; Right Worshipful Brother Frank Williams, expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality and lauded the Lodge for its remarkable fundraising endeavours over the years.
The post-dinner entertainment featured a musical spectacle with W. Bro. Robert Bryans taking the stage to serenade his younger brother with a rendition of "The Worshipful Masters Song" in his signature style. The night continued with Lodge Brethren joining in with cheerful and melodic tunes, stories of old, creating an atmosphere of celebration and merriment that lasted well into the wee hours.
As the curtains fell on a night filled with laughter, tradition, and heartfelt melodies, the Bryans brothers left an indelible mark on the annals of Lodge history. A night where brotherhood, charity, and a dash of musical flair came together to create an unforgettable night in our Masonic legacy.
