AOH Williamsburg – John Cardinal O’Connor Division
The AOH is a fraternal organization of Catholic gentlemen founded in America in 1836, but based on similar societies that existed in Ireland for more than 300 years. The AOH serves to celebrate and preserve our rich Celtic culture and history, while supporting church and community too. We invite all Catholic gentlemen with any amount of Irish ancestry to join our ranks and live our motto of “friendship, unity, and Christian charity”.
The AOH is America’s oldest Irish Catholic Organization and was founded by Irish immigrant coal miners and New York City working Irish in May 1836. It traces its roots back to similar societies in Ireland from more than 300 years ago that were formed to protect the Priesthood.
Today the AOH exists in America, Canada, Ireland, England, Wales, and Scotland. Active across the U.S., the Order seeks to assist newly arrived Irish, both socially and economically. The AOH preserves Irish culture and heritage in art, music, dance, books, history, sports, and many other activities. Celtic pride is fostered and celebrated by the AOH.
The AOH is at the forefront and active in many issues impacting the community, the Irish, and our Church including: Right-to-Life; support of family; Immigration Reform; human rights; Veteran support; and a myriad of other concerns.
The AOH Williamsburg in Williamsburg, VA – John Cardinal O’Connor Division- was founded in 1999 and is associated primarily with St. Bede Catholic Church, but also many of the other parishes in the surrounding region.
