2009 President's Letters

March 20, 2009
A Letter from Seamus Boyle to Father Jenkins
at Notre Dame Regarding President Obama's Invitation to Give the Commencement Address

Dear Father Jenkins,

As National President of the Ancient Order of Hibernians I must strongly urge you to rescind the invitation to President Obama giving the commencement address at Notre Dame this summer. As the most prominent Catholic University in the country and possibly the world what message will this invitation send to our Catholic Youth.

We are the largest Irish American Catholic organization in the United States who donates to the education of our young people who attend your school. Father, I met you last year at our annual Notre Dame meeting, and listened to you speak prior to the Pittsburgh game, and personally am shocked that this invitation was even considered.

The fact that President Obama has authorized Embryonic Stem Cell Research funding, is allowing our tax payer money to flow to international agencies who provide abortions through the United Nations and has rescinded the Executive Order that allowed health care workers the right to refuse to participate in abortions or other actions contrary to their religious beliefs should be reason enough to re think this invitation.

In conclusion I hope that you re consider our President as the guest speaker this summer and find another qualified speaker who would be more acceptable to the teachings of Notre Dame and the Catholic Church. 

Seamus Boyle
National President
Ancient Order of Hibernians in America, Inc.