Full Circle

The Worshipful Master, Officers and Brethren of Craigantlet Masonic Lodge of Friendship No. 486 expressed their sincere thanks and appreciation to W. Bro. Alan McClune on Monday 11 May 2026 as he concluded an outstanding 10-year tenure as Provincial Grand Lodge Inspector.

The role of a Provincial Grand Lodge Inspector is to support and guide local Lodges on behalf of the Provincial Grand Lodge, providing advice, encouragement and leadership to ensure the continued wellbeing and development of Freemasonry within the Province.

During his time as Inspector, W. Bro. McClune oversaw the Lodge through both challenging and historic periods. His tenure saw the Lodge endure the sadness of losing several valued members during the COVID pandemic, whilst also celebrating many significant milestones and achievements.

These included the Lodge Centenary celebrations, the successful move from Holywood to Galwally House, and the raising of in excess of £36,000 for charitable causes.  His period as Inspector also saw Craigantlet 486 make history with the first formal visit by a Lodge under the Irish Constitution to Berlin, Germany , leading to the establishment of a twinning partnership which continues to flourish.

Throughout all of these events, W. Bro. McClune’s wise advice, encouragement and friendship have been invaluable to successive Worshipful Masters, Officers and Brethren. His guidance and support have helped place Craigantlet 486 in a far stronger and more positive position for the future.

A particularly fitting aspect of the evening was noted by the Worshipful Master, W. Bro. Stephen Boyce, who reflected that he was occupying the Worshipful Master’s Chair when W. Bro. McClune first became Inspector of Craigantlet 486 ten years ago, and now, during his second term in office, had the privilege of formally thanking him as he concludes his tenure.

W. Bro. Boyce remarked that “it feels very much like things have come full circle, and on behalf of the Lodge I can say with complete sincerity that Craigantlet 486 is in a far stronger position today thanks to Alan’s guidance, friendship and unwavering support over the past decade.”

In recognition of his dedicated service and commitment to the Lodge, W. Bro. McClune was presented with a personalised engraved Belfast Crystal tankard  as a token of the Lodge’s gratitude and esteem.

The Lodge was also honoured to welcome our new incoming Provincial Grand Lodge Inspector, W. Bro. Jason Melville, who will be invested as Inspector at the Provincial Grand Lodge meeting on Wednesday 13 May 2026 at the Mourne Country Hotel, Newry.

We thank W. Bro. McClune for his dedication, friendship and service over the past decade, and wish both him and W. Bro. Melville every success for the future.