St. Maria Goretti Honors Veterans

A release from the Lynnfield Catholic Collaborative:

LYNNFIELD – As has been the tradition at St. Maria Goretti Church, prior to the start of 10 a.m. Mass on Veteran's Day, two veterans performed the ceremonial folding of the American flag while the meaning attached to each of the 13 folds was explained.

This year U.S. Army veteran Ron Nutter and U.S. Air Force veteran Doug Jamieson conducted the flag folding, the Lynnfield Knights of Columbus presented the colors, Mallory DiSilvio sang God Bless America, and the Angels in the Morning children's choir led the congregation in song.

This moving custom brings together multiple generations, connects our love of country with our faith in God, and reminds us to be thankful for all we have, for all who have fought for what we have, and for all we are able to pass onto our children.

Photos by Marie Lagman: Deacon Tom O'Shea with Ron Nutter; Lynnfield Knights of Columbus; Knight of Columbus Dean Jenkins presents the colors; Veterans Ron Nutter and Doug Jamieson demonstrate the flag-folding ceremony; Mallory DiSilvio singing God Bless America