By Benjamin McNeil

To condense the evolution of the Ancient Order of Hibernians into a short article would be an injustice to my Irish-American heritage. But as Worcester approaches St. Patrick’s Day, we must remember that the significance of March 17 transcends green beverages, intoxication and green clothing.

The Ancient Order of Hibernians formed May 4, 1836, as an Irish-Catholic fraternal organization, the objective of which was protection from rampant “know-nothing” activism; as the Order’s website states, “The subject of the [first] meeting is not recorded, but since nativist activity was becoming a national threat, it is not difficult to imagine the Irish seeking to coalesce several societies into one major defensive organization.” The early AOH embodied a character of heroism, pride, unity and courageous protectiveness.

The AOH survives in America today; in fact, Division 36 exists in Worcester. As Division 36’s website reports, “The AOH aids newly-arrived Irish immigrants, both socially and economically; assists efforts leading to the re-unification of Ireland; serves as a bridge between Irish Americans and their ancestral homeland; fosters Irish culture; and supports the Church and its mission, especially in charitable works.”

But a growing threat for the AOH looms on the horizon; the order is struggling to attract college-age members. Members who joined the order 30 or 40 years ago volunteer tirelessly to stage charity events, fight for Irish-American causes and, in general, promote the AOH. The order will, in time, need to attract 20- to 30-year-old members if its rich tradition is to survive.

So why are fewer younger people joining the order? You could start first by looking at a poll conducted by the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life in October 2012, which found that “…young people are increasingly disconnected from religion, and one in three Americans ages 18-29 describe themselves are religiously unaffiliated.” Of course, that trend continues to increase, and it does not exclude the Catholic Church. Declining Catholic membership is, in part, related to the changing tide in popular opinion regarding gay marriage, birth and the acceptance of atheism and agnosticism.

But Division 36 and the AOH, in general, also strive to promote and celebrate Irish-American heritage through cultural and educational events. Division 36’s website advertises ongoing cultural activities at the Worcester Hibernian Cultural Centre, including twice-monthly traditional music sessions, monthly open mic nights and live music every Friday, among other events. Division 36 also hosts annual golf tournaments and cultural festivals.

Most Worcesterites have heard of Fiddler’s Green, the resident pub located within the Worcester Hibernian Cultural Centre; those who have been there know that its atmosphere is friendly and welcoming.

For more information about Division 36 membership, stop by 19 Temple St., Worcester, or research the organization at aohworcester.com.