SAVANNAH, Ga (WSAV) — The buildup to the 202nd Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Parade continued Sunday with the committee’s annual Celtic Cross Ceremony.
The event began with a mass at The Cathedral Basilica of Saint John the Baptist, which was followed by a processional from the church to Emmet Park off of Bay Street in Savannah.
Parade Grand Marshal Marty Hogan said the park bears the name of an Irish historical figure.
“Robert Emmet is one of those patriots of an Irish nationalist who was actually a Protestant, and it’s great that we celebrate his life and for what he did for the Republic of Ireland,” he said.
The Celtic Cross Ceremony helps remember those who have already passed.
Hogan and Bishop Stephen Parks laid a wreath at the monument Sunday to honor those who have died.
The 2026 address was given by John Jurgensen, who asked those to talk with their families and find a time throughout the year that is special to them to come visit the Celtic cross in the park and honor loved ones.
Hogan said ceremonies like Sunday’s help the saint in St. Patrick’s have meaning.
“These kinds of ceremonies, more or less, it’s also like sanctifying yourself and just to remember that we need to put the saint back in the Saint Patrick,” he said. “All the other people can enjoy the secularization of it, but not the people here. We’re going to keep the saint in Saint Patrick and carry the song for generations to come.”
Sunday marked one week since Hogan’s investiture and two weeks since his selection. He spoke with WSAV about his experience so far.
“It’s just an honor, and I’m just so blessed to have it, and we’re almost there, and I just can’t wait for March 17th,” Hogan said. “I’m on steroids emotionally, and it’s all good.”
Hogan will continue in his role until the parade on March 17.
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