01 July 2014 - The Knights of Rizal New York (KORNY) led the celebrations for the 153rd birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Philippine Center in New York last June 19.
The evening started with a wreath-laying and flower offering to the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal, participated in by the officers and members of KORNY, Ladies for Rizal and the Philippine Consulate General in New York.
Ten new members were then inducted into the Order with a solemn knighting ceremony where the new pledges were guided blindfolded by the Brother Knights into the dark Kalayaan Hall and dubbed with the sword by Past Regional Commander Roger Alama. After taking their oath, the new Knights were then bestowed medals to signify their admission into the brotherhood.
Consul General Mario L. De Leon, Jr., who is also a member of the Knights of Rizal, delivered the keynote speech during the celebration. He addressed the community and framed his message quoting Dr. Rizal’s 1889 letter to his friends in Barcelona, who were among the first overseas Filipinos in history. Consul General De Leon highlighted the virtues of unity and solidarity as a community; faithfulness to the truth and the eagerness to inspire the youth; and the commitment to propagate the ideals and teachings of Rizal to the emerging generation.
After a short intermission for refreshments and fellowship, the program continued with the induction of newly installed officers of KORNY by Deputy Regional Commander for the USA Francis Sison. KORNY Chapter Commander Ferdinand Suba led the new batch of nine officers who will serve a three-year term.
The audience members were then serenaded with folk songs by the University of Santo Tomas Singers, who were in town for the New York leg of their US Tour.
The night was capped with an inspirational message from the new Chapter Commander of Knights of Rizal New York, Atty. Ferdinand Suba. END