This Day In Norwood History-February 17, 1950-Observe Anniversary Of Lithuanian Independence

Nation’s Spirit Should Help World To Stand Strong, Says Wigglesworth

Marking the 32nd anniversary of the independence of their native land, over 200 members of St. George’s Lithuanian Church heard Congressman Richard B. Wigglesworth laud their homeland at ceremonies held in the church parlors Sunday afternoon to commemorate the occasion.

“Freedom and independence have triumphed in the past and will triumph in the future” Congressman Wigglesworth told the gathering. “The gallant struggle the Lithuanian people have made over the centuries will not fall short. It has been said that body-killing tyrants cannot kill the public soul.’ The people of Lithuania have proved this to be true of themselves. The fight for freedom and independence they have made culminated in their triumph in 1918, and the proclamation of independence which we commemorate today should be an inspiration to America and to all peace-loving nations in this time of world upheaval.

“We stand today confronted by tragic developments in the Far East.” Wigglesworth continued. “We stand today confronted by a world in which some 750 million people are under domination behind the Iron Curtain. We stand today confronted by revelations of Communistic infiltration and disloyalty which have been ignored for years. May the courageous spirit over the years of Lithuania help America and the entire Western world to stand strong and indomitable in the struggle to make right the master of might, and to open more to Lithuania and all peace-loving nations the doorway to world peace and prosperity.”

The anniversary meeting held in the church parlor climaxed a day of special commemoration of the anniversary of independence. The Rev. Albin F. Janunas was master of ceremonies at the afternoon meeting and introduced the pastor of the church, the Rev. Felix Norbut who spoke briefly to the gathering. He also introduced Selectman Harry B. Butters who complimented the Lithuanians on the anniversary of their independence and then introduced Congressman Wigglesworth.

The services opened with Helen Novick leading the. audience in the singing of the national anthem. The church parlor was crowded for the ceremony with several of the girls of the parish attired in their native Lithuanian costumes acting as ushers and later appearing in a tableau.

February 17, 1950 – The Norwood Messenger