Meehan Calls On AOH To Extend Pro-Life Support

"The core missions of the Hibernians remains a free and united Ireland and support for the teachings of the Catholic Church," stated the Brighton native, "but the 10th anniversary of the Belfast Agreement has given not only Irish Nationalists, but also, the AOH a peace dividend.

"Now, more than ever, we can concentrate on expanding our charitable efforts in areas of great need."

In a letter released to the leaders of over 300 Divisions and all members, Meehan recalled the words of Pope John Paul II in his 1979 visit to Ireland in which he urged Hibernians to support projects that were first fostered by Brother Hibernian and JFK Memorial Medal recipient John Cardinal O'Connor.

"The practical and material support for Birthright and Pregnancy Centers must now be supplemented by support, in both word and deed, for the Priests for Life and Sisters for Life in their dedication and compassion for the unborn," he continued.

"In all we do," concluded Meehan, "we, like past generations, draw strength from prayers to St Patrick and St Brigid who inspired so many Irish to serve the poor, the defenseless, and the powerless.

"This legacy of compassion will now be given new luster by a highly focused Hibernian program in defense of the unborn."