ORLANDO  |  Most of them have been taking Irish dance classes since they were 5. Motivated by their Irish heritage and dance teacher, four students at Bishop Moore Catholic High School established an Irish Culture Club with the intention of sharing traditions and faith.

Natalie, Emma, Abigail, and Amelia discussed the club for a long time. Natalie, one of the first in Sarah Costello’s Celtic dance class, loved the idea of incorporating Catholic elements while sharing knowledge about a land she loves.

Costello, who teaches at Holy Family and St. Margaret Mary schools, encouraged the young women finding it a lovely way to share the faith.

Emma, who has full Irish heritage, said the club plans to host their first official meeting as an Irish Christmas party Dec. 3, 2025. The girls have already signed up 50 members.

Spreading Irish fun and kindness, their first activity involved decorating an Irish-themed Christmas tree for a villa at Give Kids the World Village in Kissimmee. The non-profit resort offers children who are ill, and their families a place to stay, to enjoy a dream vacation. Over the holidays, several families will experience the joy of Ireland through its ornaments.

The young women hope the club will help others explore Irish culture and its connection to faith, with a focus on experiences like traveling to Ireland.

Abigail said she was motivated by a desire to educate students about Irish culture and complement existing language and multicultural clubs at Bishop Moore.

The group discussed potentially offering performances, including charity events for senior citizens as their dance troupe has done before, as well as selling clothing featuring an Irish verse in Gaelic, potentially related to St. Patrick.

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff