Father Thomas O’Reilly Day

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Plaque Unveiling Caravan & Commemorative Celebration

Join us as we celebrate Irish America 250

Please join us to recognize Father Thomas O’Reilly named as an “Unsung Hero” by IA250

 
 

2:00 PM
Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church (Nearby Parking - 75 MLK parking deck - Parking will be validated) - Please enter the church on the MLK Jr. Drive entrance and not main entrance (it will be closed).

  • Welcome and Opening Nancy Logue Woods - HBSA President

  • Vice Consul General of Ireland - Nicole Shiels

  • Father Thomas O'Reilly Recognition - Bishop Ned Schlesinger

  • Plaque Unveiling and Blessing

  • IA250 - Jim Gaffey

2:45 PM
Oakland Cemetery – Hibernian Plot (across from Mayor Maynard Jackson’s plot and reminder you can drive into cemetery and park near the plot)
Atlanta

  • Ceremony Flags - MAPES

  • Music / National Anthems - Phoenix Irish Arts

  • Historical Reflection - Nancy Logue Woods, HBSA President, Kathleen Donohoe - Cavan History

  • Vice Consul General of Ireland - Nicole Shiels

  • Plaque Unveiling

  • Tribute to Atlanta's Irish Heritage - Irish Music & Drake Marietta Irish Dance

4:00 PM
Mary Our Queen Catholic Church
St. Joseph’s Hall (Green Awning) - Peachtree Corners

  • Community Recognition - Jim Gaffey - IA250, Mayor Mike Mason, Nancy Logue Woods - HBSA President, Father Charles Byrd

  • Plaque Unveiling & Blessing

6:00 PM
Thos. O'Reilly's Public House
Sandy Springs

  • Final Plaque Unveiling - Mike Moors, Butch Elgren, Jim Gaffey

  • Reception and Celebration

  • Irish Music & Dance and Fellowship

Father Thomas O'Reilly Day also provides a valuable educational opportunity for students, families, and young people to learn about an often-overlooked chapter of Atlanta's history. Through visits to historic sites, plaque unveilings, and presentations throughout the day, participants will gain insight into the role of the Irish in shaping Atlanta and the remarkable actions of Father O'Reilly during the Civil War. The event offers an engaging way for school-age children to connect local history with the broader story of Irish America and the contributions of immigrants to our nation's development.