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Orange
County Park |
15th IRISH HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Mass Information
The celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been, for centuries, the core of the Christian Faith for the people of the Irish race. Their religion was a part of life for which they lived and died. During the centuries of foreign oppression, when the practice of their religious beliefs was outlawed, they scurried from the traditional venues of worship to makeshift temples of the hidden valleys and barren mountainsides. There, a priest would conduct the liturgical service using a natural rock as the altar table while hundreds gathered round in prayerful devotion. All the while sentries were posted to watch for soldiers who were directed to put a stop to such activities. The penalties for participation in these rituals were harsh but did not deter the people from going to Mass.
Ireland's contribution to the world of Christianity is legend. Down through the centuries, young men and women have left their families and homes to travel to the darkest regions of the earth in order to spread the Gospel. Many of them were persecuted and killed for their actions, but there were always more dedicated people to take their place.
As we proclaim the word of God, and our voices are raised in prayer and song, a part of Ireland's history is being reenacted. Let us remember all those whose actions bring us there on Sunday. Our ancestors left Ireland in search of freedom and a better life and were willing to sacrifice their own lives to protect the freedoms that we enjoy today. "May they rest in Peace".