Larry Dominick President at The Town of Cicero | Official website
Larry Dominick President at The Town of Cicero | Official website
The Town of Cicero Clergy Committee hosted its annual National Day of Prayer on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, celebrating the community’s religious diversity at Morton College.
The event featured musical entertainment and representation from all of the town’s religious institutions. Presentations were made by several officials, including a message from Town President Larry Dominick, who was a police officer before becoming Town President in 2005.
A special tribute was offered to first responders during a time when it is becoming increasingly difficult to enlist individuals for these roles due to rising crime and attacks against police and fire officers.
“We want to welcome everyone gathered here to come together to pray for our community,” said Ismael Vargas, the Police and Fire Chaplain for the Town of Cicero. “We come together and we unite and see the importance of the times that we are living, knowing that prayer has power.”
Vargas highlighted concerns about attacks on first responders: “We hear the news that they themselves being attacked in the community … and them feeling am I going to be saved? It is our duty to pray for them.”
The audience gave a standing ovation to fire and police officers and officials, including Police Superintendent Tom Boyle and Fire Chief Jeff Penzkofer.
“The beauty of this and the beauty of everything about this community is the support we receive on a daily basis from our community is exceptional. It is a difficult job but it has always been a difficult job,” Boyle said. He added that such support makes it easier for police officers to perform their duties.
Fire Battalion Chief Jon Sochacki addressed the audience: “We are here to make your lives easier at a time of need. If there is anything that we are able to do to make your suffering easier, that is why we are here… Thank you for your prayers and your support.”
Clerk Maria Punzo-Arias welcomed guests, including pastors from various churches. She remarked on current national challenges: “We all know and we see that our country is in shambles and that we know with God nothing is impossible. Now, more than ever is when prayers are needed.” Punzo-Arias praised first responders during her speech.
Town Trustee Blanca Vargas thanked all first responders as well as the community for supporting religious diversity.
For additional coverage including videos and photos from the event:
- Watch video at http://newcicerotv.com/
- Visit Facebook.com/TownofCicero
Alerts Sign-up