NEWS
ANCIENT ORDER OF HIBERIANS, SAN FRANCISCO DIV 17
Father Michael Quinn Visits AOH Division 17
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
On a rain-softened Tuesday, April 21, he spoke to the Division about his journey – though “journey” hardly captured the winding path that led him there.
A graduate of Archbishop Riordan High School, Michael Quinn had followed a practical road at first. At the University of San Francisco, he studied Accounting and Finance, a choice that promised stability, structure, and success. Numbers made sense. They balanced. Life, he assumed, would too.
His early career unfolded just as planned. He moved through positions at Grant Thornton, AC Transit, and Ross Stores—back when the company was little more than an ambitious idea with six locations. Later, he worked as an IRS field agent, a role defined by precision and scrutiny. On paper, it was a solid life. Respectable. Predictable.
But something unsettled him.
It wasn’t sudden. It came in quiet moments-lingering after long workdays, in conversations that felt unfinished, in a sense that the columns of his life, though neatly arranged, did not quite add up.
It was during this time that he began volunteering with Marin Suicide Prevention. There, the stakes were no longer financial but human. He listened to voices strained with despair, sat with people in their most fragile moments, and encountered a depth of suffering he had never seen behind a desk.
At the same time, he taught catechism classes as a layman. What began as a small commitment grew into something more. Explaining faith to others forced him to confront his own. The questions he asked his students began to echo back at him.
Gradually, the direction of his life shifted.
The world he had built-of ledgers, audits, and steady advancement-no longer felt like the place he was meant to remain. In its place came a quieter, more demanding call, one that asked not for calculation, but for surrender.
Years later, standing before the Division, Father Quinn did not describe his choice as a departure from his former life, but as a fulfillment of it.
“Everything I did,” he said, “even the work I thought I was leaving behind-it all led me here.”
AOH Division 17 at St. Anthony’s
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Celine Kennelly Addresses Division 17 AOH on Current U.S. Immigration Climate
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
At the January Division 17 Ancient Order of Hibernians meeting held at the Irish Center, members welcomed Celine Kennelly, Executive Director of the Irish Immigration & Pastoral Center, for an informative and timely discussion on immigration issues facing the Irish and wider immigrant community in the United States.
Kennelly spoke candidly about the current U.S. immigration climate, outlining ongoing challenges, emerging policy concerns, and the real-life impact on immigrant families. She emphasized the critical role played by grassroots immigration organizations in providing direct support, advocacy, and trusted guidance. In particular, Kennelly highlighted the work of the Coalition of Irish Immigration Centers (CIIC), which advances its member organizations through collaboration, shared resources, and education-strengthening services for the Global Irish across the United States.
The presentation sparked thoughtful discussion among Division 17 members and reinforced the long-standing commitment of the AOH and the Irish Center to supporting immigrant communities through awareness, advocacy, and action.
John Powell, AOH Southern California, Easter Rising Division, Kevin Buckley, and Sean Flynn.
Mike Cotter, Mike Keohane, Bernard Murphy, and Div. 17 President Ed Reidy.
Roger Gargano, Liam Frost, and John O’Rourke.
Steven Murray and Jim Gleeson.
Lou Kolenda From YouthSF Presents to AOH Division 17
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Lou also offered a powerful recounting of his annual Fall Spiritual Tune-Up retreat. The retreat, held at the St. Francis Shrine in North Beach, is known for its rewarding atmosphere and excellent speakers, including Father Chris LaRocca and Rev. Michael Liliedahl. This year’s gathering also featured 2026 St. Patrick’s Day Parade Grand Marshal Pat Maguire—a strong and inspiring lineup. Lou encouraged all members to consider attending next year.
Looking ahead, our December meeting will be social in nature and will take place on December 16th at Johnny Foley’s Irish House, 243 O’Farrell Street, San Francisco. We plan to convene there at 6:00 PM. Please feel free to bring your spouses or guests.
Tony Sheridan recounts his trip to Ireland last year on the AOH Ambassador’s Program.
Liam Frost and John Lynch.
Commemorative AOH Mugs from its 150th Year which Gerry Driscoll brought to the meeting, a donation from the family of Jack Curtin to the AOH Div 17 archives.
History of Hibernian Halls in San Francisco
Tuesday, October 21, 2025
Jennifer Drennan, UICC Librarian, Bernie Murphy, Elizabeth Creely, Cultural Officer, Irish Consulate, and Tom Dennison.
Michael Keohane, Jennifer Drennan, UICC Librarian, AOH Division 17 President Ed Reidy, and Elizabeth Creely, Cultural Officer, Irish Consulate.
Steven Welch, Patrick Moran and Mike Cotter.
AOH Division 17 members Roger Gargano, Secretary and Vice-President John O’Rourke.
Elizabeth Creely and Jennifer Drennan.
AOH Division 17 Serves 1,400 Meals at St. Anthony’s Dining Room
Saturday, July 26, 2025
The AOH Division 17 was well represented on Saturday July 26th at St. Anthony’s Dining Room, located in the heart of the Tenderloin at 121 Golden Gate Avenue, San Francisco. Members helped prepare and deliver more than 1,400 meals to those in need. This effort is part of the organization’s ongoing outreach to support vulnerable members of the community with compassion and service.
Photographed in St. Anthony’s Dining Hall are John O’Rourke, Roger Gargano, John Lynch, Micheal Keohane, Aron Valentine, Mike Crehan, President Edward Reidy, Sean Flynn, Steven Murray and Mike Moran.
Olympic Club Foundation’s John Ring Speaks at May AOH Meeting
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
John Ring, Executive Director of the Olympic Club Foundation, was the guest speaker at the May meeting of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) at the Center. John shared heartfelt stories about growing up in the Sunset District, his education in local schools, his career as a lawyer, and his current work in development and fundraising.
Michael Keohane will be inducted into the SF Vikings Soccer Club’s Hall of Fame on Sunday, June 1st, at the conclusion of the club’s Vikings Day 2025.
Pictured left to right: Michael Keohane, John Ring, Executive Director of the Olympic Club Foundation, and Edward Reidy, President of AOH Division 17.
AOH Division 17 Supports the 2025 Irish Camp
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
At their May meeting, AOH Division 17 proudly presented a sponsorship check to support the 2025 Irish Center Camp. The funds will go toward art and theatre supplies, as well as tin whistles for the campers.
Pictured left to right: Sean Flynn, Treasurer, Kevin Buckley, Roger Gargano, Secretary, Liam Reidy, President, United Irish Cultural Center, Shane Reidy.
AOH Division 17 Gives Back at SF-Marin Food Bank
Saturday, May 10, 2025
On Saturday, May 10, members of the Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 17 came together in a powerful show of community spirit by volunteering at the SF-Marin Food Bank on Pennsylvania Street in San Francisco. The Division 17 group rolled up their sleeves to sort and package fresh produce and essential staples for neighbors facing food insecurity.
Service is part of the Hibernians’ ongoing commitment to charity and civic engagement—values deeply rooted in our Irish Catholic heritage. Over the course of the morning shift, Division 17 joined other volunteers in helping prepare thousands of pounds of food for distribution to families across the Bay Area.
“This is what the Hibernians are all about,” said Roger Gargano, Secretary of Division 17. “Faith, community, and service. We’re proud to be here, standing shoulder to shoulder with our fellow San Franciscans to fight hunger and give back in a meaningful way.”
The SF-Marin Food Bank plays a vital role in addressing food insecurity in the region, providing meals to more than 50,000 households each week. By volunteering their time, Division 17 members helped ensure that no family is left behind.
As the group wrapped up their shift, they left not only with the satisfaction of a job well done—but with a renewed sense of connection to the community they serve.
For more information on how to support the SF-Marin Food Bank, visit www.sfmfoodbank.org.
Pictured at the Marin Food Bank on May 12th, 2025: Jere Driscoll, Dan Cotter, Sean Flynn, John O’Rourke, Roger Gargano, Mike Crehan, Ed Reidy, Div 17 President, Kevin Murnane, and Aron Valentine.
SFFD Fire Chief Dean Crispen Speaks at AOH Division 17 Gathering
Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Over the years, he steadily rose through the ranks, culminating in his historic appointment as Fire Chief just three months ago. His remarks reflected a deep commitment to public service, community, and the city he has always called home.
AOH Div 17 President Edward Reidy with SFFD Chief Dean Crispen.
Liam Reidy, UICC President with SFFD Chief Crispen and Roger Gargano.
Bernard O’Murphy, Fire Chief Crispen, Mike Cotter and Dan Cotter.
AOH Div. 17 Honor the Centennial Celebration of Father Peter Yorke’s Death
Sunday, April 13, 2025
AOH Division 17 of San Francisco attended the centennial celebration of Father Peter Yorke’s death at Holy Cross Cemetery on April 13, 2025. Father Yorke died on April 4, 1925, and the archdiocese of San Francisco have honored Father Yorke and his contributions every year since.
AOH Div. 17 member John O’Rourke (left) with Marty Lynch, Edgewater, CO, holding a Fr. Yorke banner.
AOH Div. 17 members Roger Gargano, Dan Keohane, and Michael Keohane with the Consul General of Ireland, Michael Smith.
AOH Chaplain Father Michael Healy blesses the grave of Father Peter Yorke.
AOH Div. 17 and United Irish Societies member John Lynch, who served as the master of ceremonies for the centennial celebration of Fr. Yorke’s death.
AOH Division 17 Marching at the 2025 St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Saturday, March 15, 2025
2025 Saint Patrick’s Day Parade – Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 17 of San Francisco
The 2025 San Francisco St. Patrick’s Day Parade was held on March 15th, celebrating the theme “The Immigrant’s Story”, honoring the diverse histories, cultures, and contributions of immigrants of all backgrounds to both the City of San Francisco and the nation. The parade featured a colorful array of floats, marching bands, traditional Irish dancers, and community groups including the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 17 of San Francisco who assemble their marching unit once again for the past 75 years, all highlighting the rich tapestry of immigrant experiences. From Irish roots to the many global cultures that have shaped San Francisco, the event will showcase the city’s legacy as a melting pot, with participants representing cultures from across the world.
Special attention was given to the unique role that Irish immigrants played in shaping the city’s early history, while also reflecting on the broader immigrant journey. Local organizations, cultural groups, and artists will came together to share their stories through music, dance, and visual art. With marching groups, community leaders, and activists spotlighting the immigrant experience, the parade reminded attendees of the enduring spirit of inclusion and the ongoing story of people finding new homes, new opportunities, and new beginnings in San Francisco.
Joe Sheridan and President Ed Reidy marching with a Fr. Peter Yorke Banner at the parade.
Mike Keohane
Oliver Sheridan
Roger Gargano
AOH Division 17 to Honor the Centenary of Fr. Peter Yorke’s Death
Saturday, March 15, 2025
This year marks the centenary of the death of Fr. Peter Yorke, a beloved American Irish Catholic priest who served at St. Peter’s Church in San Francisco during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Throughout his life, Fr. Yorke was a staunch defender of the Catholic Church against bigotry, a vocal champion for labor rights, and an advocate for Irish nationalism. Fr. Yorke’s story is beautifully captured in the book Consecrated Thunderbolt: Father Yorke of San Francisco by Joseph H. Brushner.
To honor his legacy, Division 17 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) will commemorate Fr. Yorke’s remarkable contributions by marching with banners honoring Fr. Yorke during this year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade on Saturday March 15. Each Palm Sunday, the United Irish Societies of San Francisco hold a memorial celebration in his honor at Holy Cross Cemetery.
A painting of Fr. Yorke proudly hanging in the Patrick J. Dowling Library at the United Irish Cultural Center
AOH Division 17 Members Visit the Patrick J. Dowling Library
Tuesday, February 18, 2025
The February meeting of AOH Division 17 took place on Tuesday, February 18th, at the United Irish Cultural Center. Following the meeting, several members took the opportunity to visit the Patrick J. Dowling Library at the Irish Center to view a recent painting of Fr. Peter Yorke by AOH Division 17 member and artist Jim Gleeson.
The artwork, a tribute to Fr. Yorke’s enduring legacy, was a highlight of the visit, offering a meaningful way for members to honor the priest’s contributions to both the Irish community and the Church. The library continues to serve as an important space for preserving and celebrating Irish heritage, and this exhibit adds to its rich collection of cultural and historical works.
Back row: Artist Jim Gleeson and Roger Gargano
Front row: John O’Rourke and Mike Keohane
Back row: Artist Jim Gleeson and Mike Crehan
Front row: Joe Sheridan and John Powell, AOH Southern California, Easter Rising Division
Back row: Artist Jim Gleeson and Patrick Burke
Front row: Steven Murray and Liam Reidy
Consul General Michael Smith and IIPC Executive Director Celine Kennelly visit the AOH Division 17 membership
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
The Ancient Order of Hibernians Division 17 held their October meeting at the Center on Tuesday, October 15th. Consul General of the Western US Michael Smith and IIPC Executive Director Celine Kennelly were on hand to discuss their respective roles locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.
AOH Div. 17 President Michael Keohane and the group’s newest member Kevin Buckley
John Powell, Consul General Michael Smith, Michael Keohane, Fr. Michael Healy
Dan and Michael Keohane, Roger Gargano, Fr. Michael Healy
Michael Keohane, Roger Gargano, IIPC Executive Director Celine Kennelly, Fr. Michael Healy
Members of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, San Francisco Division 17 at work St. Anthony’s Dining Room
Sunday, July 21, 2024
14 members of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, San Francisco Division 17, volunteered their services to St. Anthony’s Dining Room where we served 1,338 meals. Great job, lads. Thanks to all of you who helped out.
The St. Anthony Foundation is a nonprofit social service organization in San Francisco, California. They are best known for their operation of the St. Anthony Dining Room in the Tenderloin District. It was founded in 1950 byy Franciscan friar Alfred Boeddeker to serve free meals to the poor in an ordinary restaurant-like setting. The Dining Room has served as many as 2,500 plates of food a day, and over thirty seven million meals since its creation. The foundation operates a residential drug and alcohol treatment program for men, the Father Alfred Center, whose residents provide volunteer labor for the Dining Hall.
News from our Young Ambassador, Shane Reidy,
travelling in Northern Ireland.
Young Ambassador Trip 2024:
Shane Reidy’s Daily Blog and Photos.
Click button below to read all about Shane’s trip!
News from our Young Ambassador, Tony Sheridan,
travelling in Northern Ireland.
6/10-6/14
Hello all
The last few days in Northern Ireland were so much fun and I am sad that it is over but also very grateful and thankful for this opportunity that you all provided me.
On Monday, we took a stop at the Dark Hedges, which was a nice little walk to go on and the way that the trees draped over the path was really cool to see. After we stopped there, we ended up at The Giants Causeway. The sights and views were amazing there and it was a new experience for me so that was a lot of fun as well. We then went Irish Dancing for a second time on the trip and that was fun to get back into it after not dancing for a few years.
Tuesday morning we had a tour of the first courthouse in Northern Ireland. We spoke with a few judges that are currently working at that courthouse. We saw the cells down below the courthouse and learned about the history of it. After that, we went to Stormont, which is the house of parliament in Northern Ireland. We met the first minister and all the other ministers. It was a great experience being able to sit down and talk to people with that much power in the government. After that, we went kayaking and had a barbecue on the other side of the island that we were at. It was very cold but tons of fun.
The next morning was an early one for me and 4 of the other members. We woke up at 3:30 am after a long night out and climbed Sleeve Donard at the Mountains of Mourne. It was an 850 meter climb and we were not prepared for it at all. Nevertheless, we made it to the very top, saw the sunrise, and saw some incredible views from the top of the mountain. We got back to our houses and hopped on our bus at 9:30 and had a full day ahead of us. We met with police officers that work for the Northern Ireland police force. After meeting with them, we went to the unsubscribing presbyterian church and learned about the history of that. After that we played hurling and it was fun for me having played for about 7 years. Most of the group had to learn but it was still a great time. Then we had a big dinner with Danny O’Connell as a group.
Thursday was our final day and on that day, we put our rocks that we all brought from our respective homes into the peace garden at the Saint Patrick’s Center to say our goodbyes. After that, we met with 2 more politicians from different political parties and one historian to tell us about how Ireland and the UK came to be. To wrap up our trip, we went to a local pub for trivia and Tim made each house write a poem summarizing their experience and it just turned into one big roast of everyone that was there.
We then got picked up at 4 AM to leave for Dublin airport and everyone went their separate ways. I spent the day in Dublin with a few of the other guys and now I am in Cavan which is where I will be until the 26th of June.
Again, I just want to express my gratitude to you all for making this whole experience possible. I have met so many new people from all across America and Northern Ireland. I did things that I never thought would be possible as a regular tourist. So, thank you very much and I can’t wait to tell you all about it when I get back home.
June 10, 2024 Photo Gallery
Sunday, June 9, 2024
Hello all,
I am still enjoying my Ireland trip a lot. On Thursday, we had the opportunity to go to the president of Ireland’s house and meet various politicians from different political parties. We drove down to Dublin and had a tour of the president’s house, met with Ciaran Quinn from Sinn fein, and met Bertie Ahern from Fianna Fáil. It was amazing to meet with them and here their views and opinions on the Irish government and politics situations. After meeting with them we went to Gelncree in Wicklow to learn about the organization that helps keep peace between the different parties and countries.
On Friday, we all went kayaking in a river that Saint Patrick rode down. It was a lot of fun even though we got soaked. We luckily had an early night and I was exhausted after all the activities we have been attending.
Saturday came and we went to dress up as vikings and reenact some battles and traditions that the vikings did when they were in Ireland. We also did ax throwing and archery while we were there. It was very interesting but pretty fun in the end. After that we went to Saul church which is where Saint Patrick built his first church in Ireland.
On Sunday, we went to mass at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in Downpatrick. We attended a very nice service held by Father Murray and met many new people there that were very interested in America. After mass, we went to Belfast to look around the town, go to a market, and learn about the rich history of Northern Ireland from Belfast’s perspective.
Best,
Tony Sheridan
June 9, 2024 Photo Gallery
Sunday June 2, 2024
Hello all,
I am really enjoying my time in County Down so far. After a long day of traveling on Friday, Shane and I made it into Dublin airport at 11 AM on Saturday. We met the others in the group, dropped our bags off at our assigned houses and went to get some dinner with the rest of the young ambassadors.
We had an early start today as we were picked up at 7:30 AM and we were all taken down to the water to meet the local rowing team in Dundrum, who happen to be the world champions of a recent rowing competition. While one group was in the water, the rest of us went over to see the Dundrum, which was built over 800 years ago. After that, we headed over to the Saint Patrick Center to learn about the center and a little bit of the history of Saint Patrick himself. We then went to the Saul Memorial for the parish’s annual Saul Sunday. This is an annual mass that is held outside just below the tallest statue of Saint Patrick in the world. This service was led by Bishop Alan McGuckian, the Bishop of Down and Belfast. We walked up the hill and took a close look at the statue and the view from being up that high was gorgeous to look at.
We are meeting many new and interesting people, seeing a lot of sights, and I will be sending back an email every few days to keep you all updated with how my trip is going.
Best,
Tony Sheridan
June 2, 2024 Photo Gallery
For the first time, two of San Francisco’s, Ancient Order of Hibernians – Division 17 young members: Shane Reidy & Anthony “Tony” Sheridan will be traveling to Downpatrick, County Down, for the first two weeks in June 2024 and become our first ever Young Ambassadors..
For the first time, two of San Francisco’s, Ancient Order of Hibernians – Division 17 young members: Shane Reidy & Anthony “Tony” Sheridan will be traveling to Downpatrick, County Down, for the first two weeks in June 2024 and become our first ever Young Ambassadors.
The Young Ambassador Program is run by the Saint Patrick Centre in County Down to create a network of informed and influential young individuals throughout America with specialist knowledge and links to the northern part of Ireland. It has been running for 16 years and hosts young people from all over America and matches them with work placements and experiences which will enhance their future career.
The Ancient Order of Hibernians in America are partnering with the Saint Patrick Centre to develop our own Young Ambassadors through this program who will gain a love and knowledge of Ireland and bring it back to help grow our organization – particularly amongst young members – and develop Ancient Order of Hibernians leaders for the future. Northern Ireland provides an incredibly diverse platform to learn about many social and cultural aspects of contemporary and historical life in Ireland as well as a developing model for community reconciliation which is relevant to many cities in North America. Ancient Order of Hibernians Young Ambassadors will develop a meaningful and on-going relationship with Ireland and will continue to represent it when appropriate throughout the rest of their lives through their work in the AOH.
Shane Reidy
Shane is a student at the Colorado School of Mines, majoring in Computer Science. In his spare time he likes to play the banjo and soccer. He has been a member of the local AOH Div 17 since December 2023. Shane is looking forward to being part of the US delegation of young ambassadors traveling to the St. Patrick’s center in Downpatrick, Co. Down this June.
Anthony “Tony” Sheridan
Tony is a junior at Cal State Fullerton and is studying communications with a focus on advertising. He competes for their track and field team at Fullerton as a pole vaulter. When he’s back home, he plays Gaelic football with Eire Og. He is a former Irish dancer with the Murphy Irish Dancers. He is a proud member of AOH Division 17 and is excited for this upcoming opportunity to visit the St. Patrick’s Center in Co. Down.
APRIL Minutes of Monthly Meeting
AOH Division 17 – April 16th, 2024
Officers Present: Pres. Mike Keohane, VP Dan Cotter, Sentinel Oliver Sheridan, Fin. Secty. Sean Flynn, Chaplain Fr. Michael Healy. Excused: Rec. Secty. Roger Gargano, Marshal Pat Burke, Treas. Dennis O’Connor.
Meeting opened at 7:06 PM with a prayer led by Pres. Keohane.
Reading of the March 19th, 2024 meeting minutes was waived. Minutes approved as written and mailed.
Pres. Keohane made a motion from the floor to help fund Div. 17 members Shane Reidy and Tony Sheridan’s trip to Ireland as part of the AOH Young Ambassador’s Program. Funding was unanimously approved in the amount of $1,000 each for Shane and Tony. Members discussed a potential presentation about the trip upon their return.
Steve Murray brought up past discussions of a potential Div. 17 service project in the community. Sean Flynn and John O’Rourke agreed to reach out to St. Anthony’s to discuss logistics.
Joe Sheridan discussed obtaining Div. 17 apparel to wear during the service project, Fr. York day, and other public events. Joe has an AOH Div. 17 jacket he obtained from the online AOH shop. There are many options, ranging from polos and t-shirts to heavy duty rain jackets. Members discussed potentially submitting a group photo to the Irish Herald or other similar publication of the participants in the service project wearing matching AOH apparel.
Liam Frost reported that the St. Patrick’s Day Parade was a success. Upcoming events including Kate Kennedy day in June and Robert Emmett day in September were discussed. It was also noted that next year will be the 100th annual Fr. York day. Div. 17 should have a presence at all of these events.
Liam Reidy noted that the St. Patrick’s Day weekend was a huge success at the United Irish Cultural Center as well. Roger Gargano manned an AOH table and recruited potential members.
Ed Reidy volunteered to reach out to his personal contacts regarding a potential historical project focusing on Fr. York and/or the SF Archdiocese. Fr. Healy noted this was important history that needs to be preserved.
John O’Rourke encouraged members to continue to recruit. Joe Sheridan will bring a new batch of Div. 17 brochures to the next meeting.
Liam Reidy volunteered to write an article about the AOH in the UICC bulletin.
Meeting closed at 8:10 PM with a prayer led by Fr. Healy.
