News - What's Happening at
Cathedral of the Pines

They are praying together and enjoying the fellowship of a special annual Mother’s Day Service at the Cathedral of the Pines. Mother’s Day has a different meaning for each one of us. For many motorcyclists, it means a trip to this landmark in Rindge for an inspirational message and a personalized blessing. Light refreshments were available near a warming fire to help ward off the chill for riders who came from near and far to attend. Over 250 bikes participated last Sunday and over 450 people visited the newly renovated grounds on this special day.

The Cornerstone Outreach Ministries of East Swanzey, NH have been tending to the spiritual needs of their members for over thirty years and welcome all to this service. After a stirring talk, the bikes formed three lines and approached the front three at a time. Each one was surrounded, blessed and prayed over. Individuals had the opportunity to ask prayers for special intentions or receive a general blessing for safe passage, good health and the grace to enjoy them. A number of non-bikers were on hand to join in the spirit of the event and some came forward at the end of the service to receive blessings of their own. Cornerstone members were more than willing to offer their heartfelt prayers to any who asked. Whether riding, praying or observing, this moving ceremony touched many hearts. Visitors were amazed by the changes to the sanctuary and most agreed the Renewal Project is both inspiring and humbling; something each person must experience for themselves.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the many wonderful volunteers who came to our Annual Spring Clean Up last Saturday and pitched in to help us prepare the grounds for our opening on May 1. We depend on our communities and friends to sustain us in these difficult times. And, once again, we are deeply grateful for their support and hard work.

The Cathedral touches many hearts and lives. Saturday, over sixty of our special angels turned up to pitch in wherever needed and help clean up our ice storm damage. This is what we are all about. Friends, neighbors and communities coming together, working side by side, for the good of all. Our common bond is our love of this very special sanctuary which welcomes all and encourages such a strong sense of brotherhood and belonging for each of us. It was a great day filled with old friends and new ones.

Thank you to each and every person who participated in this very worthy project. The grounds looked dramatically different by the end of the day, and we are profoundly and sincerely grateful for all your efforts on our behalf. It was a humbling and inspiring sight to see so many good people at every turn all working together. While it is not possible to thank each person individually, we would like to publicly acknowledge some of the groups who gave us this day of service:

• The Community Christian Church in New Ipswich
• The Dartmouth Outdoor Club
• Cornerstone Motorcycle Ministry
• The Boy Scouts
• Oakmont Regional High School National Honor Society

If you were unable to come last weekend, it is not too late to participate. Please join us Saturday, April 18 at 10:00am to learn more about the many volunteer and public service opportunities available here.

http://www.cathedralofthepines.org/images/icestorm2008/

For more photos, please go to:
http://www.cathedralofthepines.org/images/icestorm2008/

No one is likely to forget the ice storm of 2008. All of us were professionally and personally affected by this event and most of us experienced losses of one kind or another. In the last two months, we have consulted expert arborists and others and have faced some very difficult choices. Here at the Cathedral, our hilltop took a real hit and we have lost virtually all of the trees in the main sanctuary which surrounds the Altar of the Nation. Miraculously, the Altar of the Nation and its surrounding stone monuments were completely undamaged.

It appears a Divine hand has been at work re-sculpting this area. Our founders did not originally have a view of Mt. Monadnock. That was revealed when the Hurricane of 1938 took many trees down. Seventy years later, it would seem history has repeated itself. New panoramic views have emerged as both Gap Mountain and Pack Monadnock, which were previously concealed, are now visible. The overall effect is like standing on a cloud in the heavens with a front row view of infinity. It is certainly changed, but is quite spectacular in its own rite. We have brought in a nationally renowned landscape architect to redesign the area and have begun the process of re-grading in preparation for this transformation. This is a work in process. The Cathedral today does not yet resemble what it is about to become. This undertaking will require two things: money and people.

Because we are a nationally recognized memorial, many people think we receive government funding. We do not. This is a charitable, not for profit foundation which relies heavily on tax deductible contributions from our friends and neighbors. A number of organizations have come forward to help us with the work so far. However, the most expensive stage is now before us. We will need to purchase new trees and plants and all of the related materials to bring this new vision to life. We are now turning to our community and asking for your help and support. If you can send a tax deductible contribution, it will be put to good use.

If you cannot financially assist us, perhaps you might consider a gift of service. All of our gardens are maintained entirely by volunteers, and we need more hands. Now, more than ever, we need your time and talent to help this season.

Well, the votes are in, and Mr. Albert Wilson Sylvestre of Rindge, NH has won first prize in our photo contest for his entry entitled “B-17 Fly-Over”. In his composite photo which was created with the help of Mr. Chuck Mathis, the plane is directly over the Altar of the Nation which commemorates our 50th Anniversary in August 1995 when a B-17 flew over the Cathedral and he captured it on film. Mr. Sylvestre is seen holding his winning photo while standing in the Administrator’s office in front of a framed photo he took years ago of the Cathedral House, the farmhouse on our grounds which belonged to our founders, Dr. Douglas Sloane and his wife Mrs. Sibyl Sanderson Sloane.

In 1930 Eastman-Kodak gave any child born in 1918 a free camera. Mr. Sylvestre received a Brownie 120 which he still has and which still works seventy-eight years later. Through this program, he was introduced to the joy of photography which has been a part of his life ever since. Mr. Sylvestre has graciously donated his cash prize back to the Cathedral of the Pines and also offered to mat a copy of his prize-winning photo for us to display.

Entries for our contest were limited to photos taken on our grounds which could be either old or new. We received a number of wonderful photos for our contest which were then judged by public ballot. It is especially moving to have our visitors choose this particular photo since it is so closely tied to our own history. As many of you know, Sanderson (Sandy) Sloane joined the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He was a pilot of a B-17 and was lost when that plane was shot down over Germany in 1944. The heart of the Cathedral is the stand of tall pines surrounding the Altar of the Nation which was the site where Sandy and his young wife intended to build their home. He never returned to Rindge and this spiritual space grew into a memorial for all of our veterans. Today, our Foundation welcomes all to seek spiritual renewal, to honor the men and women who have protected our freedoms; and to promote the cause of peace.

We expect to host another photography contest in our 2009 season and invite any and all photographers to participate. Dust off your favorite old pictures, or come visit the Cathedral and create a new masterpiece.

Our second prize winner is Ms. Betty Pauwels of Franklin, NH who submitted her photo entitled “View of Faith”. It depicts the granite cross on the Altar of the Nation with wonderful detail of many of the stones comprising the Altar and a superb view of Mt. Monadnock in the background. This picture was taken during her visit here over the summer and was a popular choice with our visitors. Ms. Pauwels actually submitted this photo twice, once in full color and, separately in black and white. She said they both came out so well she could not choose between them. She decided to let the public pick their favorite, and so they have. Ms. Pauwels has generously donated her prize-winning photo to us along with her prize money. The Cathedral of the Pines is most humbly grateful for the kindness and charity of both of our winners who have graciously given their cash prizes back to the Cathedral of the Pines.

Entries for our contest were limited to photos taken on our grounds which could be either old or new. We received a number of wonderful photos for our contest which were then judged by public ballot. We expect to host another photography contest in our 2009 season and invite any and all photographers to participate. Dust off your favorite old pictures, or come visit the Cathedral and create a new masterpiece.

This was a remarkable celebration with many events and happenings throughout the day. Our main lawn was covered by hundreds of colorful pinwheels as part of the Pinwheels for Peace project. These were decorated and constructed by a variety of local schools including Rindge Memorial Elementary and Jaffrey Grade Schools, Conant High School, Franklin Pierce University and Crotched Mountain School. The public was invited to participate by creating pinwheels onsite, and a number of good folks added their artwork and thoughtful reflections to this display. We are deeply appreciative of everyone's creative efforts and contributions in the success of this event.
The pinwheels were joined by origami cranes created by girl scouts and other volunteers. These symbolize longevity and good fortune. The Peace Dove was here on display. Made entirely of recycled materials, it is an amazing work of art and was a welcome addition to our celebration.
Rahel gave us a musical performace singing traditional folk music from the mid-East. We were joined by two of our Buddhist friends; Jampa Tenzin and Geshe Ngawang. Tenzin offered a teaching on Buddhist thought and both monks joined us for DeLuna's musical performance. DeLuna is a harpist who presents spiritual music in hospice, ICU and other settings and she captured the spirit of the day. We are very grateful for the efforts and support of all who contributed in this very special event.

A bronze plaque for this patriotic organization was created and permanently mounted in the pulpit adjacent to the Altar of the Nation here at the Cathedral of the Pines. At a special service on Saturday, September 6, 2008 beginning at 10:00am, the plaque was unveiled. It is the first memorial plaque of this type dedicated and exhibited in America in over one hundred years. It is now, and will remain on public display for all to enjoy and to remember.

The Ancient & Honorable Artillery Company is the oldest chartered military organization in the Western Hemisphere. First organized as militia for the protection of settlers following the landing at Plymouth, the Ancients have been a continuous presence in Massachusetts since 1638. The Company, whose headquarters and public museum are at Faneuil Hall in Boston, has seen its members deployed in every conflict in the nation's history, from the Bunker Hill to Yorktown, the War of 1812, the Civil War, both World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and today, Iraq. To learn more about them, please visit their website at: www.ahac.us.com

About twenty five terrific vintage vehicles were on display for our first annual antique automobile and truck show on Saturday, August 23rd. Our sincere thanks go to the Granite Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America, Mr. Bill Driscoll, members of the Kimball's Cruise Night Club, Mr. Randy Cournoyer and all of those who participated in this event. The weather was picture perfect and it was a great opportunity for old car buffs to meet, greet and swap stories.

Welcome also to the New England Photography Expedition who joined us this day. Light refreshments were available along with a walking tour of our grounds. If you missed it this year, be on the lookout for a return engagement next year when even more participants are expected.

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 big event unfolds with smiles all around.

On Saturday, August 16, 2008 the Cathedral of the Pines was proud to host a service by the All Nations SDA Church from Lowell, MA. This Seventh Day Adventist group represents a wide variety of nations. The majority of their members are from Kenya and Zimbabwe, but the congregation also includes people from Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ghana, Tanzania and other African nations. Some of the members are American by birth; while Pastor Voyard and his lovely wife are originally from Haiti. Coming from so many diverse places, they have different languages and backgrounds, but celebrate together and make each person feel very welcome. Their warm and genuine hospitality was not limited to their own congregation, and other visitors this day were invited to join the group for lunch and fellowship following the service.

Along with Pastor & Mrs. Voyard, two of the church elders (Dr. Marucha and Dr. Justus Ogembo) spoke about their faith. One of their main goals is to keep people connected with God in their daily lives and to provide God-centered values for their children. They focus on the wholeness of life and individual development in four major areas:

1. Spiritual Awareness
2. Health of the Physical Body
3. Social Relationships
4. Intellectual Pursuits

In the pursuit of these goals, the global church numbering over one million members, is responsible for a number of hospitals and colleges worldwide.

An inspiring gospel choir of young people known as “God’s Own” sang a number of songs praising God in English, Swahili, Zulu and Twi (pronounced “chwee”). This group belongs to the Capital City Seventh Day Adventist Church in Albany, New York and traveled almost four hours in each direction to participate in this morning-long celebration. One of the young men said he prayed their music would bless those listening. It was certainly a joyful sound on our Hilltop, and we are hoping to make this an annual event. Please look for this group on our 2009 Schedule of Events and plan on joining us for inspiration, blessing and fellowship. All are most welcome.

This humble and joy-filled monk gave a talk on Buddhism followed by a guided meditation and a question and answer session with the audience.

If you were unable to attend, we are hoping he will return for our September 21, 2008 Peace Day Celebration, perhaps you will be able to meet him then.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.