An Chlann Mhic Cárthaigh Riabhaigh
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The MacCarthy Reagh Clan
Fortis, Ferox et Celer ~ Tréan, Misniúil, agus Mear
An Gallóglaigh ~ The Gallowglass
In former times, the Gallowglass of The MacCarthy Reagh bore arms in defence of the Chief and of Carbery’s people. In our modern age, when the gravest danger for many is not the sword but the loss of home and dignity, the Gallowglass fulfill that ancient duty in a new form: by serving those who are dispossessed and who lack the shelter that every human being deserves. Thus the old vocation of protection is continued through works of charity.
The Mission of the MacCarthy Reagh Gallowglass
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Defend the dignity of the vulnerable.
The Gallowglass enter the places where need is felt most sharply, bringing the charity into the heart of local communities rather than expecting the vulnerable to come to them. In practical terms, this means partnering with parish churches, community centres, shelters, and civic groups to help those at risk of homelessness and those already on the street.
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Defend and uphold the traditions, honour, and dignity of the Clan MacCarthy Reagh and of the Chief of the Name.
Guarding the memory and identity of the clan: knowing and telling its history faithfully, preserving its symbols and customs, and resisting any attempt to reduce that heritage to mere romantic decoration. After centuries of neglect and persecution, many ancient Irish chiefly families and dynasties have been marginalized, and the dignity of the ancient Gaelic-Irish royal and chiefly families lost to history. The Gallowglass are tasked to preserve those traditions that dignify the ancient Gaelic-Irish clans and are so essential to the preservation of the Irish heritage, so that clan members and the greater Irish diaspora can be celebrate of their ancient celtic traditions.
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Maintain the Gaelic-Irish martial traditions.
Finally, it is only fitting that the Gallowglass continue the martial traditions of medieval Ireland. Bataireacht is a native Irish martial art that is a part of Ireland’s cultural heritage, and while understanding that not everyone may be able, the Gallowglass are empowered and encouraged to study and preserve this art, and others. While our other clan initiatives seek to perpetuate many other facets of Irish heritage, the Gallowglass are charged to assume custodianship of Ireland’s unique martial arts.
The Insignia of Gallowglass Commanders
Commanders of the Gallowglass of The MacCarthy Reagh are awarded the insignia suspended from a red ribbon.
The insignia incorporates two crossed Sparth axes, resembling St. Andrews Cross, to represent the Scottish origins of the medieval Irish Gallowglass. Then, on the red cross there are three fleurs-de-lis denoting the three fleurs-de-lis of The MacCarthy Reagh's heraldry, and a boat to signify that members belong to many different clans from all around the world. At its center is the Róisín Dubh - a long standing symbol of Gaelic Ireland - the heart of what the Gallowglass work to preserve, defend, and represent.
And the centerpiece of the whole design is the eight pointed cross as a symbol of the eight beatitudes and Christ's call to charity which the modern Gallowglass are charged to fulfill.
Contact
If you would like to learn more about the mission or how to get involved, please feel free to contact us!