The Virginia Ancient Order of Hibernians established its first new division in more than two decades.
The division’s membership is equally divided between Culpeper and Fauquier counties, and based in Warrenton. Eighteen Irish Catholic men became the charter members in a ceremony led by state Hibernian officers last month at O’Brien’s Irish Pub in Warrenton. Organizers credited Father Kevin B. Walsh, pastor of Precious Blood Church in Culpeper, and Father Charles C. Smith, pastor of St. John the Evangelist Church in Warrenton, for their support during the two-year effort to form the new division. Bob Fay, president of the Virginia Hibernians, administered the order’s pledge and installed the elected officers. They are Dennis MacMinn, president; Mike McCarville, vice president; Mike Fitzgerald, recording secretary; Garrett Moore, financial secretary; Frank King, treasurer; Bill Shanley, standing committee chair; and Randy Tyson, marshal. Known by its AOH national designator 44FQ01, the brothers selected Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen to be their role model and division’s proper name. Its members are making plans for the Warrenton St. Patrick Day parade.
Elsewhere in Virginia, divisions celebrated St. Brigid’s feast day Feb. 1 and are preparing for Irish American Heritage Month outreach programs to demonstrate Irish culture, traditions, and pride during March.
