A Message From State President John Manning

Make it stand out

Dear Brothers,

My first year serving as your President has been a special experience and this year's celebration of St. Patrick's Day makes it even more special. It's been two long years since we have been able to celebrate the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland. Talking with Brothers throughout the state, I consistently heard the excitement in their voices to finally celebrate this special day that we all look forward to every year

Although we should all take great pride in celebrating St. Patrick and our Irish heritage, we should remember that it is a day of religious celebration. As a mere slave, St. Patrick spent much of his time in prayer when God's Presence became known to him. It is thought that through St. Patrick's works, thousands of people were saved, 120,000 people were baptized and the founding of 300 churches occured. History tells us that St. Patrick used the 3-leaved clover to teach about the Trinity, God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit - how they are one, yet three.

Simply put, what we can learn from St. Patrick isn't about leprechauns, four leaf clovers, wearing green, or luck. It's that each one of us can make a difference by demonstrating Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity in our communities.

I thank you for all that you do to demonstrate our motto and wish you a very Happy St. Patrick's Day.

Yours In Our Motto,
John J. Manning
President, AOH NY State