Hartford AOH has been sponsoring Food Drive for the pantry at Saint Augustine’s since May 2020 and will continue to do so. The Toy/Gift Card Drive concluded our “holiday” season with drives in October for Halloween treats and in November for Thanksgiving sides.

As America commemorates 250 years of naval service, the Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Ladies AOH proudly honor Commodore John Barry—Irish immigrant, American patriot, and the first commissioned officer of the United States Navy.

About the Exhibit

We have launched a dedicated exhibit aboard the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial that brings Barry’s story to life—his courage in the struggle for independence, his leadership at sea, and his enduring example of faith, duty, and service. The display is slated to run through the end of 2025, with the possibility of extension.

To broaden the impact, the exhibit can also be duplicated in whole or in part by AOH & LAOH Divisions nationwide as a centerpiece of their local America 250 commemorations.

Why Your Support Matters

• Educate — Reach the Navy community and the general public visiting an iconic American battleship.
• Preserve — Sustain the production, upkeep, and interpretive materials of the display.
• Multiply — Enable replicable exhibit assets that Divisions can use locally in 2026.

Make a Donation

For Contributions not seeking a tax deduction please donate here directly to the Commodore John Barry Division AOHDC on this site.

For Contributions over $250 that require a tax deduction please donate here to the Barry Division Charitable Trust.

No contribution is too small—thank you for your generosity.

See the Celebration

Watch highlights from the opening aboard the USS New Jersey:

Sacred Heart Church

5269 Dosher Cutoff SE
Southport, NC

Host: North Carolina State Convention

Rosen Centre Hotel

9840 International Blvd.
Orlando, Fl

Host: Florida State Convention

Contact: Greg Sean Canning

ARCHBISHOP HUGHES CENTER

32 Prince Street
New York, NY 10012

Directly across the street from the Basilica of Old St Patrick’s Cathedral

Host: New York County Board

Contact: Bill Lee

To obtain an accurate headcount for food, refreshments and hall rental, we ask that Division Presidents contact your membership and provide a list of each member attending the Degree. Please contact the New York County Board at aohnycountyboard@gmail.com or William Lee with your list of attendees by October 17th. Seating is limited.

MONSIGNOR CASEY MONMOUTH COUNTY DIV. 1 CLUBHOUSE

Fair Haven Road
Fair Haven, NJ

Host: New Jersey State Board

Contact: Jack Schneider

The event benefited the Recreation Assistance Program for the City of New Britain, which assists families in sending their children to camps and other programs, and AOH Hartford’s fight against hunger.

This was the fifth consecutive year that AOH Hartford sponsored the tournament and the championship trophy is named in honor of departed Brother Jamie Forzono, who originally brought the game to the Hartford area.

Shortly after Memorial Day, Brothers from South Carolina and Georgia laid a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington, DC. The ceremony concluded a weekend (June 6-8th) of family fun and sightseeing that included attendance at Dropkick Murphy’s Rally for Veterans on the National Mall, visits to several Smithsonian Museums, and a private tour of the the White House and US Capitol building coordinated by SC Senator Lindsay Graham’s congressional staff. 

To conclude the weekend, the travel party which included State Vice President Greg Buehner, Greenville AOH Man of the Year Joseph Carey, South Carolina State President Kevin Barnes and Georgia State President and National Director Ryan Curry attended Mass at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and were joined by Brendan Cooney, Veterans Chair of the Virginia State Board for the Changing of the Guard and the Wreath Laying Ceremony in Arlington, Va. As the AOH contingent stepped out for the wreath laying ceremony, a bout of misty Irish weather did not dampen our spirits, but served as a reminder that Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity is needed now more than ever. As a group we were honored to participate in the wreath laying and in some small way recognize the sacrifices of so many who fought for freedom and the rights we hold dear. 

Special thanks to the Barnes and Buehner family, and to Kevin Barnes for coordinating the event and working with the White House, Senator Graham’s staff, and Arlington National Cemetery to make the weekend a memorable one for all involved. 

Dear Brothers in the Ancient Order of Hibernians, family, and friends,

It is with a sad heart that we learn of the passing of Pope Francis. 

Pope Francis’ legacy is one of boundless grace, simplicity, humility, and hope. He demonstrated a gentle spirit, offering solace and guidance to those in need. His words and actions were a testament to the power of faith and the enduring strength of the human spirit. 

May he now rest forever in the loving arms of our Savior, Jesus Christ. 

Let us quietly pray for the happy repose of his soul:

Our Father …

Hail Mary …

Glory be to the Father …

Fr Martin O’ Reilly

National Chaplain to the AOH

Pope Francis led by example, reminding us all of our shared responsibility to care for one another, especially the most vulnerable among us. His dedication to the dignity of all people, his call for unity, and his tireless pursuit of a more just world will remain an enduring legacy.

As we reflect on his life and contributions, we offer our prayers for his eternal rest and the Church he so faithfully served. May his example continue to inspire us in our faith and in our commitment to charity and community.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

-Sean Pender
National President
Ancient Order of Hibernians

This St. Patrick’s Day, the Wake County, NC Division #1 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians gathered at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church in Raleigh, NC, for a profound celebration rooted in our Irish heritage and Catholic faith. The Mass, led by Division Chaplain Father Duggan, was a moving tribute to our enduring traditions.

LAOH member Debra Foley, from County Kerry, Ireland, set a reverent tone, guiding us in prayers in the Irish language before the Mass. All were encouraged to join in as the Lords Prayer was said in Irish during the mass. This connection to our shared heritage added a profound depth to the prayers, enriching our celebration. We look forward to adding more Irish language into future masses.

As the Mass concluded, AOH member Chris Cooke of the An Gorta Mor Memorial Pipes and Drums filled the air with the sounds of “St. Patrick’s Day in the Morning.” His bagpipe performance was a fitting finale to our spiritual gathering, leaving us inspired as we exited to the stirring sounds of the pipes.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, the players from the Raleigh GAA, and our friends at Le Chéile, as well as everyone in the community who joined us. Your presence made this celebration of our heritage and faith truly special.

We cherish these moments of unity and tradition and look forward to sharing many more with you. Thank you for being part of this memorable St. Patrick’s Day.

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), along with the Friends of Ireland Caucus Co-Chairs Congressman Richard Neal (MA-1) and Congressman Mike Kelly (PA-16) and bipartisan members of the Caucus, introduced legislation to establish a commission to study the creation of a National Museum of Irish American History. This landmark initiative will lay the groundwork for a permanent institution dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and showcasing the profound contributions of Irish Americans throughout our nation’s history.

“As a proud Irish American and descendant of Irish immigrants, I know that the inspiring story of the Irish in America is not just one of a people seeking a new home—it is the story of a people helping to build one,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “They came with little but gave everything, laying the bricks of our cities, fighting on the front lines of our battles, shaping the laws of our land, and pioneering breakthroughs that changed the world. Their strength was not just in their labor, but in their unyielding faith in the promise of America. This museum will stand as a testament to that legacy—not just to honor the past, but to inspire the future. It will ensure that generations to come understand that the Irish spirit—undaunted, unbreakable, and unrelenting—has not only endured in America but has helped define it.”

The proposed commission will conduct a comprehensive study to assess potential locations, governance structures, sustainable funding sources, and curatorial strategies for the museum. A critical aspect of this review will be exploring an affiliation with the Smithsonian Institution to enhance the museum’s reach, historical authenticity, and educational impact.

“Like so many Americans, I’m proud to trace my heritage back to Ireland. This museum will allow millions of Americans to learn about Irish-American culture and honor those who have made an impact on the United States,” said Rep. Kelly. “This commission will take the next step forward to bringing this museum to life and ensuring Irish-American history will be carried on for generations to come.”

“While U.S.-Ireland relations officially date back to 1924, when Irish Ambassador Timothy Smiddy presented his credentials to U.S. President Calvin Coolidge, the connection between the United States and Ireland dates back centuries. The Irish-American story is a story worth telling, and the establishment of this commission is a significant step in bringing this museum to fruition,” said Congressman Neal. “Like many of the people I represent in Springfield, Holyoke, and Pittsfield, I take great pride in my Irish heritage thanks to my ancestors. They instilled a deep and emotional connection to Ireland, and I have no doubt that they would be proud of the Ireland we have today and the continued relations between our two countries,” said Rep. Neal.

Micheál Martin, T.D., Taoiseach of Ireland, underscored the significance of this endeavor, stating: “As the United States of America approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, it is fitting that they would seek to mark the contribution of Irish and Irish-Americans, who have played such a pivotal role in shaping the United States. The proposed National Museum of Irish American history would commemorate and enhance our understanding of the experiences of the millions of Irish and Irish-Americans who have made this country their home.”

Reflecting on the enduring contributions of Irish Americans, Sean Pender, National President of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, remarked:  “Since the beginning, Irish Americans have been part of our nation’s history.  George Washington knew their indispensable contribution to America’s liberty when he stated, “When our friendless standards were first unfurled, who were the strangers who first mustered around our staff, Erin’s generous sons.  Ireland, thou friend of my country in my most friendless days.”  Although many arrived here with little more than dreams for a better life and fortitude, they and their descendants have helped build this nation and contributed to every field of American endeavor.   The story of Irish Americans is a story of the greatness of America, a story that other immigrants have used as a template, and a story deserving of a national  museum for its telling.”

Read the full bill text here.

Background:

Since entering Congress, Representative Fitzpatrick has been a tireless advocate for Irish-American issues, ensuring that Ireland’s interests and heritage are not only honored but actively defended in the halls of Congress. As a dedicated member of the Friends of Ireland Caucus and a champion for the International Fund for Ireland, Fitzpatrick has led critical bipartisan efforts to preserve the Good Friday Agreement, advocate for legacy justice, and defend peace in Northern Ireland.

His leadership was pivotal in rallying U.S. support against the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act, standing alongside Irish officials and families in their fight for justice. He has also spearheaded House Resolutions and Congressional briefings to ensure Ireland’s history and future remain at the forefront of U.S. policy.

Fitzpatrick was also the 2024 recipient of the John F. Kennedy Memorial Medal from the National Chapter of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH). The AOH John F. Kennedy Memorial Medal is the highest honor bestowed by the Ancient Order of Hibernians. This prestigious honor, reserved for those who have made extraordinary contributions to the Irish-American cause, has been awarded to historic figures such as Nobel Peace Prize Laureate John Hume, Cardinal John O’Connor, and Major General Patrick Henry Brady.

Fitzpatrick notably led the bipartisan introduction of the Smithsonian Women’s History Museum Act, which was signed into law in 2020, establishing a dedicated national museum honoring the historic contributions of American women.

From preserving Irish heritage to strengthening U.S.-Ireland relations, Fitzpatrick remains a leading voice in Congress for the Irish-American community—this legislation is yet another testament to his commitment to ensuring that the legacy, sacrifices, and triumphs of the Irish people are rightfully honored at the highest level.

On February 3 rd , after Suffolk County, NY Division 2’s men’s monthly meeting was completed, Division 2’s chaplain Monsignor Brian McNamara offered to all men in attendance to have their throats blessed, to celebrate this Feast Day.
Saint Blaise is the patron saint of throat illness. He is also the patron saint of doctors who treat throat ailments. According to the Acts, while Bishop Blaise was being taken into custody, a distraught mother, whose only child was choking on a fish bone, threw herself at his feet and implored his intercession. Touched by her distress, he offered up on his prayers, and the child was cured.

Traditionally, Saint Blaise is invoked for protection against injuries and illnesses of the throat. For all our men members who had their throats blessed by Chaplain Monsignor Brian McNamara, it was comforting to have the two candles held to our throats as we heard Monsignor Brian pray: “Through the intercession of Saint Blaise, bishop and martyr, may God deliver you from every disease of the throat and from every other
illness”.

Submitted by: Jim Killen | Division 2 Public Relations

Prayer for Healing

O God, shepherd and ruler of all the faithful,
look favorably on your servant Francis,
whom you have set at the head of your Church as her shepherd;
Grant, we pray, that by word and example
he may be of service to those over whom he presides
so that, together with the flock entrusted to his care,
he may come to everlasting life.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the
unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.

Prayer courtesy of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) 2025.

The artwork, a tribute to Fr. Yorke’s enduring legacy, was a highlight of the visit, offering a meaningful way for members to honor the priest’s contributions to both the Irish community and the Church. The library continues to serve as an important space for preserving and celebrating Irish heritage, and this exhibit adds to its rich collection of cultural and historical works.

This year marks the centenary of the death of Fr. Peter Yorke, a beloved American Irish Catholic priest who served at St. Peter’s Church in San Francisco during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Throughout his life, Fr. Yorke was a staunch defender of the Catholic Church against bigotry, a vocal champion for labor rights, and an advocate for Irish Nationalism. Fr. Yorke’s story is beautifully captured in the book Consecrated Thunderbolt: Father Yorke of San Francisco by Joseph H. Brusher.

To honor his legacy, Division 17 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) will commemorate Fr. Yorke’s remarkable contributions by marching with banners honoring Fr. Yorke during this years St. Patrick’s Day parade on Saturday March 15.  Each Palm Sunday, the United Irish Societies of San Francisco including the Division 17 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, hold a memorial celebration in his honor at Holy Cross Cemetery.

AOH St. Patrick’s Division 2, here in Babylon, NY held a fundraiser to help the “Brotherhood for the Fallen”, Suffolk County chapter. The event was held at the AOH / Irish Cultural Center at 27 Locust Avenue, Babylon, NY.

AOH St. Patrick’s Division 2 president, Jim McGrath said: “it’s our honor to assist in raising funds for such a worthy cause for the men and women in law enforcement who protect us every day in our communities”.

Event chairperson and Division 2 Recording Secretary, Bob Farrell said: “AOH Division 2, Suffolk County was proud to present a check for $3,800.00 to the Brotherhood for the Fallen of Suffolk County, which was raised at our “Back the Blue BBQ and Fundraiser”. Besides President McGrath, Division 2 Brothers who played a key role in the event were Brothers Tim Kerr, Rich Darrell, John Weppler and Jim Killen.

Brotherhood for the Fallen, Suffolk County chapter is a not-for-profit organization whose funding relies on donations. Born in August of 2016, the group’s sole mission is to help “assuage the anguish” of a loved ones of police officers who have paid the ultimate “sacrifice upon the alter of freedom”. There are over eight hundred members, and the organization enjoys the full support of the Suffolk County Police Department, the Suffolk County Police Benevolent Association as well as other union-related and fraternal organizations within the department.

The Ancient Order of Hibernians in America was founded in 1836 in New York City. It is the oldest
Irish Catholic fraternal organization, represented in all fifty states. AOH St. Patrick’s Division 2
was organized on October 6, 1946, and is the only AOH Division in the Town of Babylon. For
more information, or to become a member, please see the contact information above.

The Archbishop John Ireland Division 4 Christmas celebration included a reading by Division
4 member Mark Connor from his book, “It’s About Time (Millions of Copies Sold for Dad),”
winner of Irish Network Minnesota’s 2024 Bloomsday Literary award. Described as a “saga
wrapped around a package of poems guarded by angels,” the autobiography that reads like a
novel, honors his deceased father, Division 4 member Robert J. Connor. It is available at
https://boxersandwritersmagazine.com/books/ and includes local Irish-American history
including stories from Division members.