This St. Patrick’s Day, we gathered at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church in Raleigh, NC, for a celebration deeply rooted in our Irish heritage and Catholic faith. Our first annual AOH St. Patrick’s Day Mass, led by our Division Chaplain Father Duggan, was a moving tribute to our traditions.
Before the Mass, LAOH member Debra Foley gracefully guided us in prayers said in the Irish Language. During the mass the congregation recited the Lord’s Prayer in Irish, connected us all more deeply with our ancestral roots. Looking ahead, we are excited to incorporate more of the Irish language into future Masses, further embracing and celebrating our rich culture and traditions.
As the Mass concluded, the sounds of bagpipes filled the air, played by AOH member Chris Cooke from the An Gorta Mor Memorial Pipes and Drums. The tune, aptly named “St. Patrick’s Day in the Morning,” was a fitting end to our spiritual gathering, as the congregation exited the church to the stirring sounds of the bagpipes.
We extend heartfelt thanks to the members of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, players from the GAA, the folks at Le Chéile, and everyone in the community who joined us. This beautiful celebration of our heritage and faith was made all the more special by your presence.
Thank you for being part of this memorable St. Patrick’s Day. We look forward to many more.
