[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 65 (Thursday, April 30, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1033]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     IN RECOGNITION OF THE ``WAYSIDE SHRINE AND CROSS CRAFTING IN 
                          LITHUANIA'' EXHIBIT

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 30, 2009

  Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Folk 
Art exhibit of ``Wayside shrine and cross crafting in Lithuania'' on 
the occasion of Lithuania's Millennium being celebrated this year.
  Cross crafting in Lithuania has a rich 400 year old history and was 
inscribed into the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural 
Organization World Heritage List of Masterpieces of Oral and Intangible 
Heritage of Humanity in 2001. The exhibit ``Wayside shrine and cross 
crafting in Lithuania,'' displayed at the Embassy of Lithuania in 
Washington, DC features beautifully crafted crosses and shrines which 
are traditionally built to recognize special occasions and significant 
events for individuals, families or communities. These crosses can be 
found throughout Lithuania in churchyards, roadsides, villages and even 
government buildings, and typically feature the Virgin Mary and various 
saints. The craft of cross making is one that has been passed down 
through generations since the 16th century and serves as a symbol of 
Lithuania's rich cultural and historical history.
  Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition 
of Lithuania's rich history and the cultural significance of cross 
crafting as featured in the ``Wayside shrine and cross crafting in 
Lithuania'' exhibit.

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