I've seen a lot of shit and hate thrown at Celtic since their latest title triumph last weekend. if anyone isn't sure behind the history of the club, they'd do well to educate themselves to why the club exists today.
Celtic F.C. was formed in November 1887 by an Irish Marist priest called Brother Walfrid. The club was originally created to help tackle poverty and feed hungry people in Glasgow’s struggling East End.
At the time, the area was dealing with overcrowding, unemployment and growing religious tensions, mainly linked to large numbers of Irish immigrants arriving in the city. Brother Walfrid wanted the football club to raise money to support the “Poor Children’s Dinner Tables” and help families who were really struggling.
He also saw the club as something far bigger than football — a way to bring people together, build pride in the community and help Irish immigrants feel part of wider Scottish society.
That’s why Celtic has always meant more than just what happens on the pitch. The club’s roots are deeply tied to both the Irish and Scottish communities, built on identity, belonging and looking after your own. For many supporters, supporting Celtic is as much about community, culture and shared history as it is about football itself. It’s a club that was born from hardship and unity, and that connection still means something to people today.