News - What's Happening at
Cathedral of the Pines

Baha'i community worship service based in Peterborough, NH.

Annual visit and evening service by the Fleur de Lis Camp in Fitzwilliam, NH.

Return of this lively congregation from Boston, MA. Rev. Conley Hughes, Jr., Pastor.

Independent Order of Odd Fellows & Rebekahs Memorial Service. This is the fifty-sixth annual service sponsored by the branches of Odd Fellowship.

American Baptist worship service by Pastor Michael Walker from Brockton, MA church.

Divine Liturgy hosted by Saint George Greek Orthodox Church of Keene, NH.

Prayer Service at 3:30pm. For over fifty years, the Eastern Diocese has gathered its members for this annual prayer service.

Curious? Join us for a discussion and overview of Buddhism. Following the presentation, this humble and joy-filled monk will lead a guided meditation, then answer questions from the audience.

11:00am Evangelical Covenant Church Worship service by Rev. an Osgood of Greenfield, NH.

The bridal season is upon us. Each weekend couples exchange their vows in this exceptional setting surrounded by family and friends. Pre-ceremony concerns fade away as the event unfolds with smiles all around.

Captain Thomas Hudner, USN Ret. spoke at the Cathedral of the Pines in Rindge at 2 pm on Sunday, June 29.

Captain Hudner is the recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest award for valor in action against an enemy force which can be bestowed upon an individual serving in the Armed Services of the United States. President Harry Truman presented the award to Capt. Hudner in 1951 for action during the Korean War when he was serving as a Navy pilot flying off the carrier USS Leyte.

The topic of Captain Hudner's speech is "service to country". Not necessarily military service but service in general to your country. Copies of his speech are available on request.

Annual Service held by the Free and Accepted Masons Grand Lodge of NH. Sponsored by Lodge 26 (Altemont) of West Peterborough.

Annual service for the New England area Granges and sponsored by the New Hampshire State Grange.

The Cathedral of the Pines in Rindge, NH proudly welcomed back the Wesley Bell Ringers from Christ United Methodist Church in Salt Lake City, UT. This concert including nearly two hundred precision tuned handbells, was part of the choir’s 43rd annual concert tour. This group has visited and played in all 50 states and in 9 Canadian Provinces. Performances have been in such diverse places as Mount Rushmore National Monument, The United States Capitol, Walt Disney World and the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Olympics. They have been honored as the demonstration choir at numerous handbell conventions, featured in newspapers and magazines, played on radio and television, and produced 16 recordings.

This concert, under the direction of Terry W. Waite, included both sacred and secular music, and was designed to show the versatility of handbells. Music from composers as diverse as Copeland and Gershwin will be performed. Also included in the program were pieces by William Payn, Kevin McChesney, William Griffin, Ed Duncan and other respected handbell ringers. It was brought from Utah with love… the love of young people doing something special for their church, their fellow man, and their God.

On Saturday, June 21 at 5:30 PM under clear skies, glorious music filled the air in a truly magnificent natural setting. These young people came to serenade and entertain us with their energy and talent. We are deeply grateful to them for sharing their gifts in such a delightful way. A wonderful time was had by all.

Cathedral of the Pines Annual Wedding Vow Renewal Ceremony. Rev. David Smith of Brookline Comunity Church officiating.
The perfect way to honor your years together or to celebrate your anniversary.
Any couple interested in learning more about future renewal ceremonies, please contact our office at 603 899-3300.

We are pleased to acknowledge the donation of an original oil painting of General Jonathan Mayhew "Skinny" Wainwright IV. A four star Army General, he was awarded the Medal of Honor and the Distinquished Service Cross. Described as "the last of the fighting generals", he was a West Point graduate, compatriot of General Douglas MacArthur and hero of the World War II Battle of Bataan. He survived a series of Japanese prisoner-of-war camps. After his liberation in Machuria in 1945, he was able to participate in the formal surrender ceremonies marking the end of the war aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay.
This portrait was painted by his daughter Anne Appleton Clark and presented to us by Mrs. Barbara Wells.

Rotary International's District 7870, comprising 60 clubs in Southern New Hampshire and Vermont, held a special Global Warming Conference at the Cathedral of the Pines on Sunday, June 8th . The Jaffrey-Rindge Rotary Club hosted this event.

James McCarthy, Professor of Biological Oceanography at Harvard University, was the keynote speaker. Among other extensive scientific credentials, he is currently President of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and has been heavily involved in the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. He will provide the perspective of national and worldwide scientists on global warming and climate change control.

Billy Connelly, marketing executive with Native Energy, Inc. in Charlotte, Vermont, described his company's international renewable energy business and their carbon offset projects assisting communities in reducing CO2 emissions and building sustainable economies. Allen Clapp, Executive Director of the Cathedral served as moderator.

Vendors exhibits were available to display and discuss their green technology, products, and services involved in creating solutions. The conference in the Cathedral itself ran from 2:00 to 4:00 PM. Included were displays of Rotary's programs in Honduras (Pure Water for the World and Amigos de Honduras) and of essays by high school students and posters by elementary students, both dealing with Global Warming.

Annual school event for Mascenic Regional High School including students from the towns of Greenville, Mason & New Ipswich, NH.

Here is a lovely shot of the Altar of the Nation taken just before one of our weddings. In keeping with our long-standing tradition of inclusiveness, a number of diverse religious symbols are on display. This altar was recognized as a National Veterans Memorial by an act of Congress in 1957.

Cathedral of the Pines Annual Memorial Day Celebration. Representatives from numerous patriotic, military, veteran and veteran service groups attend this service to represent those who serve/served this country and deserve to be remembered.

Annual school event held prior to commencement; Winchendon, MA school.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Service at the Cathedral of the Pines is one segment of a memorial motorcycle run. This memorial to those lost and fallen during the Vietnam War is sponsored by Sacred Heart School in Gardner, MA and accomplished with the efforts of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 907 – Norm Webb, president. The Gardner Fish & Gun Club hosts a BBQ after the motorcycle run is completed around noontime. In its fifth year, this motorcycle run and memorial service is a rain or shine event kicking-off with registration at the American Legion Post 129 in Gardner at 7:45 a.m. For more information about the ride and BBQ, please see Chapter 907 website at www.vietnamveterans907.com.
Beginning around 11:00 a.m. the hum of motorcycles (with a police escort) fills the parking lot of the Cathedral of the Pines. After the motorcycles have entered and parked, the riders and other participants gather at the Altar of the Nation for a brief but poignant ceremony to honor the memory of Vietnam veterans and their lost comrades. A bagpiper begins the service, a wreath is placed at the Altar of the Nation by Norm Webb, and an honor guard gun salute along with a taps sounding bring the service to a close. As the flags are retired and people exit the Cathedral proper, it beckons all to remember the sacrifices and lives of this nation’s men and women in military service. The memorial service itself lasts about thirty minutes with those not participating in the motorcycle run lingering to reflect and remember.

The sunshine and grounds are enjoyed by the 4th Grade of the Rindge Memorial School during their field trip today.

A memorial service by the New England Regional Aerie & Auxilliary of the Fraternal Order of Eagles hosted by The Rhode Island State Aerie.
The photo is of the Ten Commandments Garden whose monolith was donated to the Cathedral of the Pines by this district.

Dedication of the Armed Forces Memorial Tribute Flag and Echo Taps. This performance is timed to correspond internationally with simultaneous sounding of Taps. Master of Ceremony Rev. Don Becker of Patriot Guard Riders.

At this service the Cathedral of the Pines was presented with the original version of the "Never Forget Flag" by its designer and creator, Marcella Farrell. This flag and the story of its origin will be displayed in our onsite museum.

Hosted by the WAVES Granite State Unit # 33. This group is responsible for the stained glass window in honor of the WAVES located in the Hilltop House. This Memorial Service is a tribute to fallen companions who have served their country as WAVES.

Over 150 motorcycles gathered for our annual Blessing of the Bikes hosted by the Cornerstone Motorcycle Ministry of East Swanzey, NH. After a very moving service and witness talk on the steps of the Women's Memorial Bell Tower, the bikes formed three lines which came forward one at a time to be annointed, blessed and prayed over. Riders had the opportunity to request special prayers. The weather was perfect and many folks lingered after the service enjoying the fellowship and setting.

Hosted by 101st Airborne Division, New England Chapter; Combat Infantrymen's Association, New England Regiment; and, Army Wives.
Two new plaques were donated this year which join prior year contributions and are presently located just to the right of the main entrance to the Altar of the Nation.

Hosted by NH District 5 Veterans of Foreign Wars & Ladies Auxiliary.

Tents, scouts and scouters filled the grounds on this rainy weekend. From Friday evening until Sunday afternoon we were happily surrounded by the Nashua Valley Council Boy Scouts of America.
The Scouts donated a number of community service hours over the course of the weekend as they participated in organized events and teachings centered around Native Americans. There was a special service Saturday evening and a number of activities including a tomahawk throw and craft projects.

Cathedral of the Pines staff and volunteers with the aid of The Dartmouth Outdoor Club and other willing volunteers turned out to help with our annual Spring Clean Up Day.
This year icy conditions and firm resolve ruled the day. Our dedicated helpers went above and beyond the call in helping to clear winter debris and prepare for our seasonal opening on May 1, 2008. Our sincerest thanks go out to all who gave of their time on our behalf.

Cathedral of the Pines staff and veteran volunteers presented volunteer opportunities for the upcoming season and gave a brief history and tour of the grounds.
There are many ways to serve, and we are deeply appreciative of the efforts of our community of dedicated volunteers. Their help and support are vital to our foundation. If you are interested in meeting great people, please contact us to learn more about how you can get involved. (603) 899-3300.

Celebration by The Monadnock Bible Baptist Church, Pastors Tom Peragallo & Alain Choquette officiating.
Service this year was forced indoors due to extreme weather conditions and hazardous footing at the Altar of the Nation outdoors. Our Hilltop House was filled to capacity with a number of guests standing or sitting outside listening to the service over loudspeakers.

I am sorry to say it is a difficult morning here at the Cathedral of the Pines. We all know it was a difficult winter and the last ice storm damaged many trees. However, as we prepare for our annual Easter Sunday Sunrise Service we see firsthand the devastation left in the wake of this extreme weather on our hilltop. Today, instead of the peaceful and serene beauty of the Cathedral, we are assaulted by the sounds of chain saws and wood chippers. For those of us who love this place, it is a very sad day. Trees that have stood well over one hundred years are gone, others so badly damaged they must be removed. These trees have been our sheltering friends for many years and it is emotionally wrenching and extremely hard to have to say goodbye to them in this way. There have been both prayers and tears. Today, blue ribbons mark those whose long watch has now ended. They have faithfully stood guard through many years, and we mourn their passing. It is a great loss for us and our office has the somber, sad atmosphere of a funeral.

Expert arborists have been retained to advise and assist the work crews. The Cathedral of the Pines Foundation is committed to protecting and nurturing this exquisite hilltop. In 1957 by a unanimous vote in the US Congress, our Altar of the Nation was recognized as a National Memorial. We are the caretakers and stewards of this true national treasure, and will do our best to insure its place in perpetuity for all generations. This spring we will be taking assertive measures to nurture our existing trees and plant new ones. We humbly ask for your financial support in these efforts. Tax deductible contributions may be made payable to The Cathedral of the Pines and mailed to us at 10 Hale Hill Road, Rindge, NH 03452.

Presidential Candidate Gov. Michael D. (Mike) Huckabee is pictured standing with Chairman of the Board Edward C. Brummer II at the Altar of the Nation which is a national shrine memorializing our country's war veterans.

Congressman Paul Hodes, will give the special keynote address at the Cathedral of the Pines Memorial Day ceremony on Wednesday, May 30th at 2:30PM. Leaders of all major veteran and patriotic organizations will be in attendance.

This past Veteran's Day the Cathedral announced its "Unite America" petition drive urging the U.S. Postal Service to issue a commemorative stamp featuring the Cathedral's "Altar of the Nation" as a tribute to all American servicemen and women who have sacrificed their lives in the cause of peace and freedom. The NH Executive Council is issuing a resolution in support of the stamp petition on Wednesday to coincide with Memorial Day. The direct link is www.CathedralPinesStamp.org

The Cathedral of the Pines is an open-air, "cathedral without walls" memorial to America's war dead, and a sanctuary for people of all faiths to worship. It is located in southwestern New Hampshire where inspiring views of Grand Monadnock Mountain, the most climbed mountain in the world, can be seen from the Cathedral grounds. This is the 50th anniversary of the Congressional resolution recognizing the Cathedral as the locus of the Altar of the Nation. It is also the 40th anniversary of the dedication of the Woman's Memorial Bell Tower.

Dot Maver, executive director of The Peace Alliance, visits Cathedral of the Pines on Tuesday, February 27th at 11:30am, to meet with officers of the Cathedral of the Pines Foundation and to pay respects on the 40th anniversary of the Women’s Memorial Bell Tower, the first memorial in the nation to specifically honor the patriotism of American women.

The Peace Alliance is a nonpartisan citizen action group working to create a nonviolent world and advocating legislation in support of a culture of peace. The organization is educating and inspiring thousands of individuals throughout the country to become activists on behalf of its campaign to create a national Department of Peace. The campaign has citizen organizers in all 50 states. Barbara Thorngren of Temple, NH, one of the New Hampshire organizers, will be present to answer questions.

While visiting the Cathedral, Ms. Maver and Ms. Thorngren will sign the Cathedral of the Pines Unite America Stamp Petition in a special ceremony in the Administration Building. See www.CathedralPinesStamp.org.

The petition drive seeks to have the U.S. Postal Service issue a commemorative stamp featuring the Cathedral’s Altar of the Nation and Women’s Memorial Tower as a tribute to all American servicemen and women who have sacrificed their lives in the cause of peace and freedom.

Cathedral of the Pines is an open-air, cathedral without walls, memorial to America’s war dead, and a sanctuary for people of all faiths to worship. It is located in southwestern New Hampshire where inspiring views of Grand Monadnock, the most climbed mountain in the world, can be seen from the Cathedral grounds.

For further information go to:
www.thepeacealliance.org
www.NHDeptofPeace.com
www.CathedralofthePines.org

General Tommy Franks, USA (Ret), Commander of Coalition Forces during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq, has joined in the nation-wide "Unite America Now" effort urging the U.S. Postal Service to issue a Cathedral of the Pines commemorative stamp to honor American servicemen and women who have died fighting for our country.

In signing the Cathedral of the Pines stamp petition General Franks stated "he was proud to lend his support to the troops, now and in our past, who continue to keep us the land of the free and the home of the brave."

Cathedral of the Pines is a national war memorial and a natural "cathedral without walls" located in southwestern New Hampshire with awe-inspiring views of Grand Monadnock Mountain, the most climbed mountain in the world. The Cathedral is the only shrine of its kind to pay tribute to those men and women, both military and civilian, who have given their lives in this country's armed conflicts.

In honor of all women who have sacrificed their lives in service to our country, the Cathedral has the first in the nation Women's Memorial Bell Tower with four bronze reliefs designed by Norman Rockwell.

Cathedral of the Pines is open to all who seek inspiration from the beauty of nature, and from the faith of a family who transformed their grief into an abiding testament to the brotherhood of men and women of every belief.

The "Unite America Now" effort seeks to enlist tens of millions of supporters behind the modest goal of issuing a postal stamp commemorating the sacrifices our fellow countrymen have made when our country called.