The main purposes of our degree program are: “Waken a pride in the ancient race
of our forefathers and develop an interest in the history and destiny of that race”.
The Rituals and Degrees of the AOH are an important component of who and what we are as an organization. While it is essential for us to urge our members to take the Major Degree, it is also incumbent on us to assure that the Degree Teams themselves are available to perform this service wherever required. During the first week of September I mailed a Degree Team Profile form to be completed by each of our teams. My purpose was to ascertain which teams are currently active, as well as to update contact information for all teams.
The teams are being listed below in the hope that counties, states, and regions will now start to plan for Major Degrees in their respective jurisdictions.
Whenever the Major Degree is performed, in addition to the qualified candidates for the degree, we also welcome and encourage Officers, Sponsors, and all Major Degree Members to observe the candidates learn the Lessons and take the Test of Our Order, in accordance to our laws. Candidates and observers alike should be informed, that proper dress code is in order (no sneakers, shorts, tee shirts, etc.), so that the ceremony is conducted in the dignified manner that it deserves.
Saint Columbkill Knights Major Degree Team (MDT)
Contact: John O’Keefe Jjok59@comcast.net
10 Brantwood Court
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
908-705-1606
Brian Boru MDT
Contact: J.J. Kelly IrishKnight1@verizon.net
9102 Paloma Lane
Springfield, VA 22153
703-475-9415
Cu Chulainn Celtic Warriors MDT
Contact: Jack King jkcuchulainn@yahoo.com
636 Rockaway Street
Staten Island, NY 10307
718-948-2555
Isle of Erin MDT
Contact: Jack Schneider Jack1515@aol.com
215-361-3327
Tara Court MDT
Contact:Walter S. Butler Wbutler547@aol.com
4 Melvin court
Farmingville,NY. 11738
631/736-2171
Sons of Milesius MDT
Contact: John O’Connor ollamh1@hotmail.com
199 N. Cassingham Road
Bexley, OH 43209
614-253-0470
Schenectady MDT
Contact: Michael Glenn mglen2@nycap.rr.com
155 Foch Road
Scotia, NY 12302
518-372-0818
The Red Branch Knights MDT
Contact: Francis McLoughlin armorysuper@aol.com
646-525-5277
Round Tower MDT Status: currently re-organizing
Contact: Jerry Callaghan
44B Jennifer Place
Staten Island, NY 10514
917-582-7171
Carraig Phadraig MDT Status: currently re-organizing
Contact: James Lawracy jlawracy51@gmail.com
144 Village Farm Rd
Columbia, SC
803-422-6297
In addition, the National Board would suggest that any counties or states that might presently be considering starting their own teams contact JJ Kelly, the Chairman for Rituals and Degrees (details above). JJ will be happy to provide assistance and direction on forming a new team.