Why are we the Lantern League?

The name goes back to the history of the Sisters of the Presentation (the founders of Presentation High School, which is the sponsoring organization of this circle.) The religious order was founded by a woman named Nano Nagle. She was a native of Cork, Ireland and came from a very wealthy family. She became increasingly concerned about the plight of the poor in her country—especially poor children who were denied education under the penal laws. She formed a religious order of women dedicated to the education of children. Because it was illegal during the 18th century to provide education for Catholic children, she did so in the cover of night. She was often seen in the streets of Cork carrying a lantern.

The lantern is an object that casts out light and serves as a beacon of hope lighting the darkness. Since the proceeds of this circle will fund programs for women and girls, this seemed an appropriate name for our group.