HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) — The Ancient Order of Hibernians hosted its Annual Communion Breakfast and Memorial Mass on Sunday morning.
This was one of many events leading up to the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which is just a week away from the day.
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“For us it’s like a kick-off event for a great week in Holyoke,” expressed John Driscoll, The Chairman of the Breakfast and he says this breakfast brought about 200 people to the Wyckoff Country Club to celebrate their Irish heritage, “It’s a way for us to gather each year and for us to celebrate our Hibernian motto which is: friendship, unity, and true Christian charity.”
Irish National Dance Champion Erin Duffy Lacy, is also a research fellow at Harvard Medical School. was one of the featured speakers. She spoke about competitive Irish dancing. Another highlight of the breakfast was the awards that were given out.
The Hibernian Christian Charity Award for 2024 was given to Polish National Credit Union CEO James P. Kelly for his efforts to improve the lives of the people of Hampden and Hampshire Counties.
James P. Kelly told 22News that he did not expect to get that award and that community engagement is important, “I think it’s important that we encourage people to be involved in the community. I can tell you where I work we encourage our young people to get out there and make a difference.”
This breakfast is not the last event leading up to the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the 47th annual St. Patrick’s 10K Road Race is on Saturday, March 16th followed by the parade on the actual St. Patrick’s Day, Sunday, March 17th.
Kiara Smith is a reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since March 2023. Follow Kiara on X @KiaraBSmith1 and view her bio to see more of her work.