The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
by Dessa Rodeffer, Quill Publisher/owner
What a beautiful June evening to draw area patriots to the Stronghurst Village Park to pay tribute to God and Country.
Over two hundred citizens came out with lawn chairs or to sit in the shelter house to see the presentation of the American U.S. flag, and the Christian flag.
The evening began with all standing and saying the familiar pledge we all learned and recited in grade school to the American flag, that precious symbol of freedom …
"I Pledge Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all."
It was followed by the pledge to the Christian Flag…
"I pledge allegiance to the Christian flag, and to the Savior for whose Kingdom it stands, one brotherhood, uniting all Christians in service and in love."
And finally, all recited the pledge to the Bible, the important book of creation, instruction, and God's grace and love for each of so great that he sent His only begotten son, Jesus, to save us
"I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God's Holy Word. A lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path, its Words will I hide in my heart, that I might not sin against God."
Scripture, prayers and a devotional was shared by church leaders of the community Quentin Peterson, David Knutstrom, Steve Minkler, Karen Martin, scattered with patriotic hymns sung by the audience of "America the Beautiful", "America", "God Bless America", and ending the program with "Let There Be Peace on Earth".
Highlights after honoring God and Country, was honoring those in the military, in law enforcement,, and our first responders with a round of applause.
Quilts of Valor presentations were made to honor nine of America's finest from Hancock and Henderson County - our U.S. Veterans - pictured from right to left:
After the program, homemade ice cream made by David Knustrom and cookies and brownies made by members of the community churches were served.
The Community Churches will join together again at the County 4-H Fair for a service this July.