Irish music and merriment flowed out of the Basilica of St. Mary
School gym in torrents March 10 during the third Annual Irish Hooley, a party
celebrating Irish music and culture. The sold-out fundraiser, organized by the
Alexandria Ancient Order of Hibernians, drew more than 400 people, most in
green and gold finery.
Special guest Bishop
Michael F. Burbidge and Father Edward C. Hathaway, rector of the Basilica of
St. Mary in Alexandria, officially opened the Hooley with a procession
including the Hibernian color guard and St. Patrick, played by Jim McLaughlin.
Both Bishop Burbidge and Father Hathaway received a plaque from
the Hibernians thanking them for their dedicated service to the principles of
friendship, unity and Christian charity.
Guests enjoyed an evening of socializing, while also feasting on
traditional Irish cuisine donated by Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub. Irish music was
performed by Pat Garvey and the Thistle and the Rose, a Celtic music duo
including award-winning fiddler Kaitlyn Likas and Celtic re-enactor Chris
Lindsay. There were also several exciting performances by the Boyle School of
Irish Dance and a rendition of the beloved “Unicorn Song” led by Pat Troy.
“My two favorite parts were just seeing the community come together in the spirit of building parish family and also seeing that our coming together led to a significant donation to Christ House,” said Bishop Burbidge.
“It was a fun evening for our parish family and a great way to help those less fortunate,” said Father Hathaway.
The Hooley raised more than $8,000 for Christ House in Alexandria, which provides food to the hungry, shelter to the homeless and clothing to those in need. Tom O’Neil, the winner of the 50-50 raffle, donated his prize back to Christ House.
“It’s a great fundraiser for a great cause and a great excuse to
celebrate our Irish heritage,” said Terry Riley, president of the Ancient Order
of Hibernians. “America was founded in part by the Irish, including our parish.
It was a primary promoter of religious freedom, which is why we gained basilica
status, and we still promote religious freedom today.”
Buy photos from the Irish Hooley at catholicherald.smugmug.com.