The Ancient Order of Hibernians was founded in Ireland to protect the lives of priests imperiled by the Penal Laws, instituted by the British government in 1691. They forbade, among other things, the practice of Catholicism.
The AOH in America was chartered in New York City in 1836 to help protect and support the Catholic Church and its clergy, and to aid thousands of Irish immigrants in assimilating into American life. It is not only the oldest Catholic lay organization in America, but also the largest Irish society in the world.
The AOH Allegheny County Board, like others in our order and people of faith everywhere, deplore the shameful sins of the very small minority of priests who are guilty of taking advantage of the young and defenseless. We pray that justice and God's healing prevails in all of these cases.
We also believe, though, that with the current hostile conditions in the media and public opinion, our love, respect and admiration for those who faithfully serve Christ in the priesthood and who live their holy vows every day should also be expressed.
We empathize with all devoted priests during this crisis. The AOH stands now and forever in defense of our faith and unwavering admiration and gratitude for our beloved priests.
Green is a state director of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and vice president of the Allegheny County board. Murphy is Catholic Action chairman of the county board. McKee is president of Division One, South Hills - Monsignor Charles O. Rice.
