[ Bottom ]

Ramapo Mountains District

Seventh

Rededication to God and My Country

Saint Luke's Roman Catholic Church

Ho Ho Kus, New Jersey

April 7, 2002

3:00 P.M.

At exactly 3:00 PM Sunday April 7, 2002, Tom Jaeger (Ramapo Mountains District) called the one hundred and fifty Scouts, Cub Scouts, Cub Scouters and Scouters in attendance for a rededication to renew our promise to keep the tenets of Scouting, re-pledge our allegiance to our great country, display our reverence to our God and remember those who gave their greatest gift for our freedom. A procession of American, Pack and Troop flags followed with members from every unit in attendance.

After the posting of the Colors, Reverend Ray Muniz (Christ Community Church Waldwick), delivered the invocation, recalling one of mans oldest prayers to God. Lorraine Deluca (Ramapo Mountains District) welcomed all in attendance. Cub Scout Dennis D (Pack 308) led the congregation in the "Pledge of Allegiance". Bob Taschler delivered an inspiring responsive reading of the 33rd psalm. Reverend Minyhun Cho, (Saint Luke's RC Church Ho Ho Kus) delivered a thought-provoking message on Scout reverence. A joyous sound resounded from the church as the congregation sang "Let there be Peace on Earth". A yeoman's job was performed by Pete De Kramer at the piano for this and all the music for the day.

James Lupfer (Ramapo Mountains District) reminded us all, in his informative talk,of the aims and purposes of Scouting. He spoke of our stewardship for the future and our investment in today's youth. Three Cub Scouts Peter R., Ryan M., and Andrew B. (Pack 134) then led all Cub Scouts, Webelos and Scouters in the Cub Scout Promise. Life Scout Thomas D.(Troop 88) led Scouts in the Scout Law and then provided an interpretation of the Law. David A.(Troop 59) then led Scouts and Scouters in the Scout Oath, while his father Skip A. then led all leaders in the leaders prayer.

Thom Shoop (Ramapo Mountains District) challenged us, to what Cub Scouts, Scouts and Scouters should aspire to achieve, in his commendation and charge. The light of Scouting was passed to all in attendance by Cub Scouts Matthew D. and Connor H., and all joined in singing "Pass It On". Connie Desiderio (Troop 88) addressed the congregation and thanked all the participants and organizers. Mr Buelnett Scout Master (Troop 157) led us in The American Indian Prayer, the final prayer for the day.

A rousing rendition of "America the Beautiful" resounded within the walls of the church upon completion of Ed Thomas's closing thoughts. He reflected on the events of the day and how the world had changed so dramatically since our last rededication. He emphasized how the world needs the values that we all hold so close to our hearts, to go forward. Reverend Ray Muniz closed the ceremonies with a benediction. The colors were retired and a recessional led everyone from the church accompanied by the "Scouting March"

Friendship and fellowship followed the ceremony in the church hall. Cupcakes, cookies and brownies were served. Refreshments of juice, lemonade and soda were also provided. Everyone enjoyed both the service, the refreshment and the fellowship. Both religious leaders relayed their delight with the Scouts reverence and the participation and performance in delivering the service.

The Ramapo Mountain Men wish to extend their thanks to Reverend Cho for both the use of the church and his commitment to our youth. We also would like to thank Reverend Ray Muniz for his time and inspiration. Words are not enough to show our gratitude and heartfelt thanks to Karen Thomas for the wonderful job she did in organizing and gathering the necessary support for this event. Above we would like to thank the parents and the boys who attended in renewing their vows to the principles of Scouting. Special thanks to Ed Thomas, (Troop 88) without his zeal and support we would have not gotten out of the planning stages. Rich Dunn thank you again for securing the use of the church.

[ Top ]