Lodge 340 - Rahway, NJ
GCU Lodge 340, Rahway, NJ Celebrates Flag Day
GCU Lodge 340 members hosted a Flag Day celebration at St. Thomas the Apostle Church. Lodge members and the parishioners gathered together on Sunday, June 6, 2010 after the Divine Liturgy on the front lawn of the church under the flag pole. More than 50 people attended the first annual Flag Day celebration. The Very Rev. Michael Mondik and Deacon Charles Laskowski started the celebration with an opening prayer for our freedom and our veterans. Our newest U.S. citizen, Alena Vira, lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Linda Cwiekalo, lodge secretary, spoke about the “Star-Spangled Banner” and John Dudas lead us in singing our national anthem.
A participant asked for a moment of silence for all the people who gave their lives on D-Day, 66 years ago today in Normandy, France. Mark Bannworth told the attendees about the Flag’s history and symbolism. The celebration lasted about 15 minutes and was concluded with everyone joining in to sing “You’re a Grand Old Flag.” Everyone in attendance received a complementary flag pin from the GCU Fraternal Director. Then Red, White and Blue cookies were enjoyed by all.
[If your lodge would like to hold a similar event, please feel free to contact Mary Bannworth at bannworth1@cs.com for more details.]