The O'Briens are one of the great Gaelic families of Ireland, and were the rulers of the ancient kingdom of Thomond, which takes in much of the modern county Clare and also the adjacent parts of counties Limerick and Tipperary. The family name is derived from Brian Boru (925-1014 A.D.) who was King of Thomond and rose to become High King of Ireland. Brian Boru is best … [Read more...] about Roots: The O’Briens
Archive
President Trump Proclaims Irish Heritage Month
The President calls on Irish Americans to celebrate their "contributions to our Nation," adding,"Irish Americans are known as some of the toughest, most driven, and most devoted people on the face of the Earth." A PROCLAMATION BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Irish Americans have played a crucial role in our great American story — courageously overcoming … [Read more...] about President Trump Proclaims Irish Heritage Month
A Tribute to Justice: The William Brennan Legacy
The death of Justice William Brennan in July, after a long illness, was mourned by President Clinton, other dignitaries, family and friends who packed St. Matthew's Cathedral -- the same church where the funeral mass was celebrated for slain U.S. President John F. Kennedy in November 1963 -- in Washington, D.C. for his funeral mass. "We thank God for his life," said Clinton, … [Read more...] about A Tribute to Justice: The William Brennan Legacy
Living on the Fringe
Frank Shouldice explores the relationship between Irish travellers and the settled community. When Mary Robinson announced she would not be staying on for a second term of office as President of Ireland it was worth observing the reaction from various quarters. For most people, the announcement heralded a conclusion to a uniquely popular presidency. As a most impressive public … [Read more...] about Living on the Fringe
The Friar and The Saint:
How St. Valentine Came to Dublin
How St. Valentine Came to Dublin
IA Newsletter, February 8, 2025
A Carmelite priest was gifted the relics of Saint Valentine, now enshrined in Our Lady of Mount St.Carmel, Whitefriar Street Church, Dublin.He will be forever linked with St. Valentine, but John Francis Spratt would be remembered as a beloved philanthropist, famous for his work among the poor and destitute in the Liberties of Dublin. He was one of the first to join Fr. … [Read more...] about
How St. Valentine Came to Dublin