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More than 400 people, many dressed in green, packed the Basilica School of St. Mary gymnasium on March 9 for a Saint Patrick’s Day celebration that raised $13,000 for Christ House.
The Alexandria Ancient Order of Hibernians organized the Irish Hooley to benefit the West Street charity, a Catholic Charities program that provides food, shelter and clothing to people in need.
A $13,000 check was presented to Christ House volunteer coordinator Sister Aniliza Juan on behalf of the Basilica and the Hibernians.
“We raised $13,000 for Catholic Charities Christ House and had a great time doing it,” said Ken Wolfe, president of the Herbert-Cady Division of the Alexandria Ancient Order of Hibernians.
The afternoon’s entertainment included local Irish musician Pat Garvey, the Boyle School of Irish Dance, the O’Neill James School of Irish Dance, the City of Alexandria Pipes and Drums, Tom McCuin and DC Rose.
Tom Mooney and Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub supplied traditional Irish dishes, including shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and corned beef and cabbage. Wolfe thanked the pub for donating the event’s food and drinks.
The Very Rev. Edward Hathaway opened the gathering with a welcoming prayer and joined the festivities. Chris Robertson served as Hooley chair.