Friends of Saint Patrick Centre - Milwaukee Chapter

06/07/2026

Throughout the entirety of day 5, we had the opportunity to learn about several important aspects of Northern Irish history, culture, religion, and daily life. From discussions about The Troubles to learning basic Gaelic phrases and attending a Gaelic football match, the day provided a deeper understanding of the people and traditions that continue to shape Northern Ireland today.

Read more and follow along on substack https://willissryan.substack.com/p/day-5

06/04/2026

In the afternoon, we traveled to Struell Wells, a site containing the ancient ruins of a church and bathhouse. Walking through the historic grounds was fascinating and offered another glimpse into the rich history that can be found throughout Ireland. As we explored the site, I found myself reflecting on the many generations of people who had visited the area before us and the important role these locations have played in the region’s religious and cultural heritage. The visit also sparked conversations about the history of Christianity in Ireland and the lasting influence it continues to have today.

One of the most valuable parts of the day was the opportunity to spend so much time talking with Aiman. His knowledge of Ireland, its people, and its history provided us with an insider’s perspective that added a whole new dimension to our experience. Learning about the social dynamics of Northern Ireland directly from someone who lives there helped me better understand the complexities, traditions, and communities that shape the region today. These conversations gave me a much deeper appreciation for the culture and history of the country than I could have gained through sightseeing alone.

To finish the day, we visited O’Hare’s, a local pub known for its welcoming atmosphere and traditional Irish music. The evening quickly became one of the highlights of the trip. We listened as talented local musicians performed traditional tunes, creating an authentic cultural experience that brought the pub to life. To our surprise, we were invited to join in and play some of the instruments they generously lent to us. It was a wonderful example of Irish hospitality and made us feel like part of the community rather than simply visitors.

Feel free to read more on my sub stack https://willissryan.substack.com/p/day-4-99e?r=6lfu0d&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-action

06/04/2026

Today began at the Saint Patrick Centre, where we met Aiman, a friend of Mr. Tim Campbell. From the moment we met him, it was clear that he was passionate about sharing his knowledge of Northern Ireland and eager to show us some of the places that make the region so special. After introductions, we piled into his car and set off for a day of sightseeing along the coast.

As we traveled through the countryside and along the shoreline, Aiman stopped at several scenic overlooks that offered incredible views of the surrounding landscape. The coastline of Northern Ireland continues to impress me with its rugged beauty, dramatic cliffs, and endless stretches of ocean. At one of our stops, we visited a small harbor where we were fortunate enough to spot several seals swimming in the water. Watching them move effortlessly through the harbor was a memorable experience and another reminder of the diverse wildlife that can be found throughout the region.

Check out more on my sub stack https://willissryan.substack.com/p/day-4-99e?r=6lfu0d&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-action

06/02/2026

Day 3: we began our journey by driving through the countryside of Ireland, where we stopped and took some photos at the dark hedges. Next we made our way to do some more sightseeing at the cliffs, beginning at the Giant’s Causeway. Next, we drove along the coast to Ballycastle, and all the way down the Causeway Coast. We stopped at an old Irish inn for Lunch, before driving to Downpatrick to St.Colmcille’s Primary school to learn how to Irish dance. Learning from the young students was a blast and a very rewarding experience. To finish off the night I had the opportunity to listen to some of my fellow ambassadors play their bagpipes and had a long late night walk with my roommates.

06/01/2026

Day 2 went well. We first went to a traditional Catholic Church service, and had the opportunity to meet the pastor. Afterwards, we got a personal tour of the St.Patricks center before heading over to the actual church where St. Patrick preached as he spread Christianity throughout the island of Ireland. Following this, we played some ice breaker games, and then had the opportunity to take a ferry around Strangford Louth, between the two small port towns of Strangford and Portaferry. While on the boat, we saw dolphins and jelly fish in the water. Afterwards, me and my roommates all headed back to our apartment and cooked steaks and broccoli crisps. It was quite a night. After eating, we all decided to head down to the beach and take a dip in the water. It was extremely cold, but it was exhilarating. We then crashed back at the apartment, listening to music, and overall just talking and getting to know each other.

05/31/2026

Flight went well! Landed in Dublin and met with some of the other young ambassadors! Headed to Newcastle and got the opportunity to move in, unpack, and do some grocery shopping. After, headed out to the bars to have a couple of drinks and watch the soccer game. I also had the opportunity to meet my new roommates. They seem like a great group of people, and we all get along really well. Overall, a great 1st day.

05/31/2026

01/01/2026

New Year, New Adventure!

Travel for FREE to Northern Ireland this June with 15 other young adults from across America.

Colleen, a previous ambassador said “I applied on a whim, expecting to never hear anything… the next thing I knew I was on a plane on my way to the Emerald Isle!”

Apply by January 8th, and get your summer plans rolling!

More info:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1zsJedF0K2LfxqdqZjoruQGnXRjFJWzh7ivg0vqe7RM8/viewform?ts=686f09d9&edit_requested=true

12/11/2025

🇮🇪 Know a young leader ready for an adventure?
We’re looking for passionate young adults to become Young Ambassadors for a free cultural experience in Ireland! ☘️✨

If you (or someone you know) want to explore Irish culture, build lifelong friendships, and represent our community abroad — now’s the time to apply!

📍 Spots are limited — apply today!
Message us for details or click the link below!

Apply Here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1zsJedF0K2LfxqdqZjoruQGnXRjFJWzh7ivg0vqe7RM8/viewform?ts=686f09d9&edit_requested=true

12/03/2025

Apply Today!!