Brothers, welcome to 2025. I hope you and your families had a very enjoyable Christmas season filled with our Catholic faith and friends. The next big event as of this writing is the Pro-Life March in Washington, D.C., scheduled for Friday, January 24, 2025. I hope to be in attendance that day and hope to see a lot of you at the March. The Preamble of our National Constitution calls us to protect “all life born and unborn.” That is why it is important for those of us who can march on January 24 or any other day to do so. It is just as important for those of us who cannot march to pray for the end of abortion.
Our next season of celebration is St. Patrick’s Day; I would like to wish you all very happy St. Patrick’s Day. For most of us this is our favorite time of year when we get to enjoy parades along with the music and dance of our Irish heritage.
Also, I want to thank everyone for their Freedom for All Ireland fundraising effort. Most, if not all, donations will be distributed out to those in Ireland seeking justice for themselves and their families that need our support. Thank you, Martin Galvin, for your tireless effort.
Brothers, all members need to ask themselves, “What can I do for our Noble Order.” We need members to become involved with our Divisions and County Boards. Look to set effective recruitment goals, continue to stay in touch with past members because you never know if they may come back. Thank you for all your dedication to our Noble Order.
On a sad note, I received news of Jack O’Brien passing. I was able to attend his Catholic Mass and the memorial service. I first met Jack O’Brien and his friend John McInerney as they worked tirelessly to initiate and bring to fruition the Commodore John Barry Memorial along with the leadership of AOH President Seamus Boyle and the AOH National Board. The Memorial was dedicated on May 10, 2014, at the U.S. Naval Academy. Rest in Peace Jack.