“The Lord GOD has given me a well-trained tongue, that I might know how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse them.” On Palm Sunday I heard those words in the first reading, and it inspired me to reflect on its meaning to those of us in leadership. Are we speaking words of comfort, healing, life, hope, mercy, wisdom, forgiveness, and truth to lift and build others rather than tear them down? Do those that lead do so based on Faith, Truth, and Responsibility. One has only to look to Pope Leo XIV for a profile in leadership that is based on those qualities. During Irish American … [Read more...] about National President Sean Pender Report – May 2026
AOH National Presidents Sean Pender’s Address to Irish Americans in Government
One hundred and ninety years ago on the streets of lower Manhattan the AOH was founded when we answered the call to defend our church from those No Nothings who wanted to burn them down. Sadly, this was a situation that the Irish race was all too familiar with. During the dark days of the Penal Laws in Ireland, we did the same, we protected our faith as priests were hunted and were forced to say mass in woods and forests on mass rocks. Priests under the threat of execution by the British were protected by brave Irish men and women who saved our faith. Sadly, in the 1830s we as Irish … [Read more...] about AOH National Presidents Sean Pender’s Address to Irish Americans in Government
Put Me in, Coach: An AOH Call to Support Irish Baseball
Representing Ireland and the future of Irish baseball. Opening Day: A Time for Hope — and a Call to Action Two of the greatest words in the English language are “Opening Day.” It symbolizes hope and anticipation for baseball fans everywhere—the start of a new season filled with possibility. Opening Day embodies optimism, unity, and the excitement of potential success. It inspires fans to believe that this is the year their team can win it all. Yes… even I, as a Mets fan, still have hope. AOH National President Sean Pender proudly supports the Irish American Baseball … [Read more...] about Put Me in, Coach: An AOH Call to Support Irish Baseball
2026 St Patrick’s Day message from AOH National PresidentSean Pender
Happy St. Patrick’s Day! I extend my warmest wishes to everyone as we celebrate this special day. St. Patrick's Day is not only a time to honor Ireland's patron saint but also to celebrate Irish heritage and culture. I hope your day is filled with joy, friendship, and a sense of unity. Whether you enjoy a parade, share stories with loved ones, or participate in traditional Irish festivities, I wish you a fantastic time. Here's to our shared traditions, and may the luck of the Irish be with you today and always! It’s important to remember and honor the sacrifices of brave Irish men and … [Read more...] about 2026 St Patrick’s Day message from AOH National PresidentSean Pender
National President Sean Pender Report – May 2025
At the Rockland County, NY, book signing, Hibernian leader Brian McCabe, Lost Gaels author Peadar Thompson, and President Sean Pender. In the first quarter of 2025, our organization successfully engaged in a series of major events that significantly enhanced our visibility and strengthened our partnerships. We used this time to continue to develop relationships and sponsorships with many other Irish organizations and position the AOH as the premier Irish organization in the U.S. and the voice of Irish America. While consistently promoting the positions that we consider important. Notable … [Read more...] about National President Sean Pender Report – May 2025
National President’s Report – Jan/Feb/March 2025
May 2025 be a year of health, hope and happiness for all our members and their families. Each new year presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals and organizations. The year 2025 promises to be an exciting period for members of the AOH. We are pleased to announce that we will be sending our third class of St. Patrick’s Centre ambassadors to Ireland in June; further details will be provided in this Digest. We aim to implement a new roster and application system by the second quarter. The initial phase of the project will enhance our technological capabilities, facilitating … [Read more...] about National President’s Report – Jan/Feb/March 2025