My
Special thanks to Father Tom Walsh and Deacon Bob
McGovern for making this mass possible. This is our 31st
Annual Memorial Mass to honor our deceased members. We
do this by keeping them in our hearts and minds with
prayer and song today. Our club has lost many fine and
devoted members over the years but they will forever be
part of the Friendly Sons family and will forever be
with us in spirit. Just look around at the club or on
the parade line and you will recall the faces of those
who are no longer here but still remembered and are
missed.
Marching in the Belmar/Lake Como parade to honor our Patron Saint Patrick is one of the greatest ways to show our support of this fine club and to stand up and be proud of our Irish heritage. We support and honor this year’s Parade Adjutant, Alan Purcell as he leads us today. Alan as many know is a true example of what it means to be a Shillelagh and a true Irishman because of his unselfish service to this club and to others. We are also honored to have our Pipe and Drum Band lead us on this glorious day. When you have pride in your heart nothing can dampen your spirit as we march forward on this magnificent day.
With feelings of pride and
joy we will return to the club to celebrate how truly
special it is to be a member of the Friendly Sons of The
Shillelagh. We extend an invitation to all family and
friends to join us today as we start the month long
celebration of being Irish.
The Executive Board and I wish to thank Charlie Donnelly and all those who put so much time and effort into making this year’s Memorial Mass and Parade a truly grand day.
John Wagle
President
