By Katie Vasquez
The sounds of bagpipes and drums filled Fifth Avenue on Saturday as nearly 2 million people gathered to wave the Irish flag and show off their Celtic pride.
“We’ve been coming for close to 30 some years,” said Cheryl Riley-Marano, who attended the New York City St. Patrick’s Day parade. “It’s a great time, really. You know, it’s a great time to celebrate your heritage.”
The New York City St. Patrick’s Day parade, a testament to the enduring spirit of Irish heritage, is the oldest and largest demonstration for the patron saint of Ireland in the world. It predates the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking its historical significance.
“It’s the biggest, it’s the friendliest,” said Stacy Franco, who attended the New York City St. Patrick’s Day parade. “Everybody’s here. Everyone makes an effort to get out to New York City. It’s the best place to be.
A legacy New York’s Cardinal Timothy Dolan says continues to shine in New York City even to this day.
“The parishes, the charities, the schools, the hospitals, the health care, the joy in the hope, the fact that we continue to welcome the refugees like we welcome them,” said Cardinal Dolan. “This is the legacy of the Irish, the legacy of Patrick.”
In honor of the saint, parade-goers started the day in Mass.
Cardinal Dolan led the celebration, and the Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, Bishop Robert Lynch, gave the homily, emphasizing the saint’s impact on Ireland.
“Under his guidance and direction, a pagan people once devoted to druids embraced Jesus Christ as their lord and savior,” said Bishop Lynch.
A missionary saint that Brooklyn Bishop Robert Brennan says can be a role model for Catholics today.