Harold Henning elected Grand Master of the Orange Order as Edward Stevenson steps down after 15 years

Most Wor. Bro. Harold Henning

Members of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland have elected a new Grand Master — only the 21st to hold the leadership role in the Institution’s 230-year history.

Most Wor. Bro. Harold Henning was unanimously ratified as the new Grand Master during a meeting of more than 100 senior Orangemen, succeeding Most Wor. Bro. Edward Stevenson, who has led the Institution since 2011.

Bro. Henning, a long-standing member of Drumlough Heroes LOL 153 in Rathfriland District LOL No.3, is widely known throughout the Loyal Orders and bands community. His service extends across the Royal Black Institution, the Apprentice Boys of Derry, and the Pride of the Hill Flute Band.

“Truly humbled” to take on leadership role

Speaking after his election, the new Grand Master said:

“I am truly humbled to have been chosen by the Brethren to become their Grand Master. The Orange Institution plays a central role in the life of many local communities, and I am committed to ensuring the organisation continues to grow and develop in the years ahead.”

Bro. Henning also paid tribute to his predecessor, with whom he served for more than a decade:

“I have had the pleasure of working with Bro. Stevenson for 11 years as his Deputy Grand Master, and I wish to publicly acknowledge his selfless commitment and devotion to the role, and to our members during his tenure. He has been a loyal and trusted friend during that time, and I am glad that he will continue to serve the Orange family through his role as Imperial Grand Master.”

At the same meeting, Rt Wor. Bro. Derek Reaney was elected Deputy Grand Master.

Stevenson’s 15-year legacy

Edward Stevenson’s tenure saw him oversee a number of major initiatives, including the establishment of the Museum of Orange Heritage and significant commemorative events during the decade of centenaries — notably the Ulster Covenant, the Battle of the Somme, and the formation of Northern Ireland.

He also guided the Institution through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, which saw the Order play a prominent role in community support efforts across many areas.

Upon taking office in 2011, Stevenson pledged that the many members of the Institution murdered during the Troubles would not be forgotten. In recent years, Orange Victims Day has brought fresh focus to the 344 members of the Orange family killed during the conflict, through exhibitions and remembrance events.

Reflecting on his time in office, Bro. Stevenson said:

“It has been my honour and privilege to serve as Grand Master for the past 15 years, and I wish Bro. Henning and his Officers every success for the years ahead.”