PAN AMERICAN THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION HELD AT ST. PATRICK'S
Washington, D.C. (JFK+50) On November 25, 1920, the Pan American Thanksgiving Celebration was held at St. Patrick's Cathedral here in the Nation's Capital.
The Pontifical High Mass was sung by Archbishop Giovanni Bonzano*, apostolic delegate to the United States and a sermon was given by Rev. Cornelius F. Thomas**, pastor of St. Patrick's.
Rev. Thomas said...
"America stands on the threshold of an important and vital part in the destinies of human life and our trust in God...will support our onward progress.
I believe America was founded...on the recognition of the dominance of Almighty God in world affairs.
The principles...we proclaim...will cause us to be hailed as leaders in saving the world and nations from confusion and disorder."
The church was decorated with flags of all nations and was "filled to capacity" with hundreds more standing outside.
The services were attended by Secretary of State Colby, Secretary of Agriculture Joshua Alexander, Secretary of Interior Joseph A. LeJeune, Chief Justice White and a large number of ambassadors representing nations of Latin America.
*Giovanni Bonzano (1867-1927) served as Apostolic Delegate to the U.S. 1912-1922 & was elevated to the cardinalate in 1922.
**Rev. Cornelius F. Thomas (1858-1941) was pastor of the St. Patrick's Parrish 1917-1941.
SOURCE
"Hails U.S. As World Savior," The Washington Times, November 25, 1920, Chronicling America, Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/
