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Pocono News Section
Outrage After Priests Ordered Grave Flags Removed
Outrage After Priests Ordered Grave Flags Removed - Monday, November 24, 2008 at 11:52PM EST
Reported by: Joe Holden
Monday, Nov 24, 2008 @ 11:52pm EST
NESQUEHONING, CARBON COUNTY- The graves in the parish cemetery of the former Our Lady of Mount Carmel church were stripped of all American flags. Fran Arieta said she noticed something was missing last week while on a walk through the area. Not one flag was visible in the cemetery early Monday evening.
Since then, the story has "spread like lightning." Some people have returned with new flags only to have them removed again. Arieta said one man, who had 14 brand new flags taken, called Nesquehoning Police. That man's flags were reportedly recovered. Arieta said they were told the flags were taken down because of the effect winter weather can have on them. But parishioners like Joe Roman said if removing the flags is part of a new policy, no one was informed by the parish. "It's a kick in the... ."
Nesquehoning is said to have the most servicemen per capita to fight in World War II of all towns across the country. Many veterans are buried in the cemetery. Arieta said the flag was an honor to recall the sacrifice made in life. And now, the cemetery is barren without the stars and stripes, according to Roman.
Parishioners tell Eyewitness News the local pastor, whose name is being withheld pending comment, has threatened to arrest them if they attempt to replace the flags. Cemetery gates were also padlocked. The locks don't prohibit entry, but car traffic is now restricted, which Arieta said will make it difficult for many in the elderly population to visit loved ones' graves.
Arieta said in one instance, the Carbon County District Attorney was contacted about the matter, but declined to become involved, apparently saying it was a civil matter.
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