St. Patrick's Day Heritage
Honoring Irish Heritage
St. Patrick's Day, celebrated on March 17th, is more than just a day for parades, green attire, and festive gatherings—it's an opportunity to connect with family history and honor Irish heritage. Whether you have Irish ancestry or simply appreciate the shamrock-loving, tartan-wearing culture, the holiday provides an entire day to delve into the past and celebrate your roots.
Exploring Family Lineage
For many, St. Patrick's Day sparks curiosity about family lineage. Approximately 9.5% of the United States population is of Irish descent, making it one of the most common ancestries in the country. It's the perfect time to research genealogy, uncover family stories, and explore connections to Ireland. Resources like Ancestry.com or FamilySearch, DNA testing services, and local historical societies (hint, hint...the FamilySearch Center in Burley) can help trace family roots back to Irish ancestors. Understanding where your family comes from adds a personal significance to the holiday and fosters a sense of belonging.
Preserving Family Recipes
Family traditions play a vital role in celebrating St. Patrick's Day. Cooking traditional Irish meals, such as corned beef and cabbage or Irish soda bread, can be a way to honor the culinary heritage passed down through generations. Sharing these recipes with younger family members not only keeps traditions alive but also strengthens family bonds. And if baking Irish foods is out of your skillset, adding some green food coloring to pancakes or cake frosting can be another fun way to celebrate as a family.
Storytelling Across Generations
Irish people are known for their storytelling and legends (the gift of the blarney). Storytelling is another powerful way to bridge the gap between past and present. Take time to share family legends, anecdotes, or letters from ancestors. These stories connect generations, helping children and grandchildren understand their heritage and the sacrifices made by those who came before them.
Embracing Cultural Heritage
Even if your family doesn't have Irish roots, celebrating St. Patrick's Day can inspire a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage. Use the day as an opportunity to learn about Irish history, music, and traditions. Encourage family members to create online or literal family trees, document memories by taking pictures of your celebrations, and maybe even invite other families to join you as well.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
St. Patrick's Day reminds us that our family stories are worth celebrating. Whether through food, stories, or research, connecting with your family's history can make the holiday even more special and strengthen the ties that bind generations together.
Song of the Month
CONSULTANT LESSONS
Consultant Lessons are held weekly on Thursdays at 6:00 pm taught by Shelley Miles. She will be using Zoom Class Replays as taught by the Los Angeles Family Search Center. It may be geared for ward and stake temple and family history consultants, but all are welcome to come learn more about FamilySearch.
Classes Include:
- Consultant’s Best Resources
-The Basics/Descendency Tree
-Blue Dots and Source Linker
-Family Search Catalog
-Family Tree Apps
-Fan Charts
-Memories
CALENDAR
Check the calendar for classes and other opportunities!
Important Dates
March 5th-8th Roots Tech
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