Long Island Catholics represented well at the NYC St. Patrick's Day Parade (Photos)

Long Island Catholics were finely represented at the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which was held on Saturday, March 16 rather than the official feast day for the patron saint of Ireland, March 17, because the date fell on a Sunday this year.

The Irish and those celebrating lined the streets of New York City yesterday to commemorate St. Patrick as parade goers marched down 5th Avenue braving the cold temperature and snow.

The snowy view of Central Park was picturesque and magical, however the chattering of teeth behind Irish smiles made onlookers aware of how some of these marchers were actually feeling.

The Irish cheer of all involved was evident, especially amongst the youngest celebrants and those representing Long Island, including many students from the Catholic Schools spread throughout the area.

A sampling of the marchers from Long Island participating in the 2013 St. Patrick’s Day Parade included the marching band of St. Raymond School from East Rockaway, Our Lady of Peace in Lynbrook, Molloy College Gaelic Society and the Irish American Society of Mineola among other schools and organizations from the across the country and Canada representing the Irish culture.

Jason, a 13-year-old seventh grader, who plays saxophone for the St. Raymond School Marching Band in East Rockaway, described his feelings on participating in this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

It was cold, but a fun experience. The walk was far and my legs hurt afterwards. Everyone was really nice and friendly.

The atmosphere of the parade was jovial and a great way to honor St. Patrick's Day. Thank you to all of the participants, including the students from the Long Island Catholic Schools, who braved the elements to entertain the crowds.

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Deirdre Haggerty, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this article may be reproduced without prior written permission and consent from the author or Clarity Digital Group LLC, DBA Examiner.com.

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Deirdre has been an active parishioner at Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church in Valley Stream and now at St. Raymond in East Rockaway where her children attend Catholic School. She and her husband helped facilitate Pre-Cana classes for couples wedding within the Catholic faith and are actively...

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