The Division honored Monsignor Ronald Cellini, our chaplain, presenting him with a shillelagh and citation which reads:
Monsignor Cellini, on the occasion of your 40th Anniversary of your ordination to the priesthood, your brother Hibernians of the Bishop Patrick Lynch Division present you with this “Irish Walking Stick”. This walking stick has both a functional and symbolic purpose.
Originally, the walking stick was used as a weapon of defense. It was a badge of honor for those who carried it. Irish boys were exposed to the tradition of the bata, and when they came of age, to carry a stick was viewed as the passage into manhood. In this walking stick you truly have an authentic “Shillelagh”.
When you look upon this stick in your chapel, office or room, understand that it represents our support of you. Whether it be from behind or in front, or to the left or right of you, we stand ready to provide you any support you may require.
In “Friendship, Unity and True Christian Charity”, your Brothers of the Bishop Patrick Lynch Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians.
