by Laurel | March 16th, 2012
15 March 1951
Shrine of St. Patrick's Bell
On Christianity, U.S. History
Holyoke, March 14 — Contributions of Ireland to the cultural development of the civilized world, and a review of the religious and intellectual vigor of St. Patrick which established Christianity and gave an impetus to learning were discussed tonight by John J. Stiles, former school committeeman at the traditional AOH (Ancient Order of Hibernians) celebration in Shea’s Avodire.
Founded Universities
Presented by Sen. Maurice A. Donahue, toastmaster, the speaker told of the monasteries and universities founded by the patron saint who is also Ireland’s national hero. From tranquil cloisters, he said, came the religious to preach fearlessly thee essential truths of Christendom, and from corridors of learning there followed groups of teachers to spread the wisdom that proved the basis of true culture.
While Patrick’s mission was chiefly religious, Stiles said, the saint was also a builder of a nation and the principles he inculcated have survived “through oppression and tyranny.” Each era since has provided a patriot, he said, who emerged to inspire Hibernia’s sons and daughters in a crusade for freedom.
Irish Contributions
Contributions of Irishmen and those of Irish ancestry to the building of this nation were cited. Their exploits and valor in fields of battle are recorded, he said, in the chronicles of all wars in which this country has been engaged. They have provided statesmen, orators, poets, inventors and Industrialists to add to this nation’s luster.
State and county officers of the AOH attended, headed by State President William P. Sullivan, Chairman was Thomas W. Daley. On the committee were Gerald Bynan, Division 5 president; Patrick Varley, Edward Harris, Michael Seward, James Kennedy, John P. Sullivan, Dennis Lynch, John Harris, John Reardon, Edward Nugent, Russell Dowd, John Vaughan Nugent, J. Russell Dowd, John Vaughan, Patrick Shevlin, Thomas P. O’Connor and James R. Farrell.
Adapted from The Springfield Union.
