The Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) is the oldest Catholic lay organization in America. It was officially formed in New York in 1836. Today they stand, not only as the oldest Catholic Lay organization in America, but as the largest Irish society in the world with Divisions in Ireland, and 49 of the 50 United States.

The AOH in America is partitioned into Divisions, County Boards, and State Boards, and is governed by a National Board elected every two years. The Division is the basic unit in the Order, and membership in a Division is membership in the Order. Even County, State, and National Officers, maintain membership in a local Division. Annual dances, concerts, and parades sponsored by all levels of the Order raise millions for charity, while providing a showcase for the positive contributions of the Irish to every walk of American life. Divisions usually support local charities within their geographic areas, while sending a portion of their monies to higher levels for support of state, national, and international charities. Subcommittees are often established to perform specific functions such as the administration of an annual Feis or Festival, the raising of a historic memorial, or providing instructions in such Irish subjects as history, bagpiping, dancing, and language.

The many Divisions and Hibernian Halls across the country have also traditionally provided a welcome for new immigrants. Here, the unique art, dance, music, and other interests of the Irish are fostered and preserved, making the AOH Hall a home away from home for many. Together, they are at the forefront of support for issues concerning the Irish, such as Emigration Reform, MacBride Legislation, and the Right to Life. They never forget their ancestral homeland either, and can always be found actively lobbying for, praying for, and working for the total independence of a united 32-county Ireland, as their constitution avows: “by all means constitutional and lawful.”

For more information, visit the Ancient Order of Hibernians website or contact Bruce Denault ([email protected]) to learn more!

The Knights of Columbus is a fraternal service organization of practicing Catholic gentlemen dedicated to supporting our clergy, church, community and country. The organization is founded on the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, patriotism and defense of the church.

We offer self-fulfillment through donation of time and talents wherever needed and wholesome fellowship with congenial companions who share the same beliefs and duty to God. The Knights meet the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the Knight’s Hall in the Parish Center. Some specific volunteer opportunities are: food preparation and service at parish, holiday food baskets for the needy, support of the Women’s shelter, collection of funds to assist persons with intellectual disabilities, sale of fireworks, wheelchair ramps, family activities, youth activities, vocations, and support of many parish events. Join the Knights for the experience of a lifetime.

For more information, please contact our Grand Knight, Ryan Steenberge or visit the Knights of Columbus website.

BACK TO MENU

The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians is a sisterhood of Irish and Irish-American Catholic Women. The Ladies AOH has changed in many ways over the decades but still we hold true to our mtto of “Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity.” We are pledged to God and Country. The primary purpose of the Ladies AOH was to protect young immigrant Irish girls coming to the United States, to assist them in securing employment, to give them the opportunity to be with their own kind, and to keep them from becoming homesick and discouraged. The Ladies also foster the ideals and perpetuate the history and traditions of the Irish people and promote Irish culture. Our Patron Saint is Saint Brigid of Ireland.

For more info on the Ladies AOH, please contact Collette White ([email protected]).

BACK TO MENU

The Craft Ministry meets on the last Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. in the school dining facility, from September – May. Please join us if you are interested in sewing, knitting, quilting, or crocheting, etc. to help spread God’s love and comfort to those in need. All adults are welcome.

The Craft Ministry provides adult and childrens’ baptismal stoles in unique, beautiful designs. Members have also created prayer shawls, altar decor and other projects as needs arise.

BACK TO MENU