Flag Etiquette at Church
All Americans should understand the proper rules and etiquette for displaying the United States flag. The display of the flag in a church should follow the same etiquette as any other public building. The proper display of the flag in a church building signifies to the congregation that the freedoms represented by the flag are cherished and respected.
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Indoor Display
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A flag displayed on the platform with the speaker should always be posted to his right side when facing the audience. Other flags on the platform should be to the left of the speaker. A flag posted on the auditorium floor is considered part of the audience, and should be to the right of the audience. A flag hung flat on the wall behind the speaker should be displayed with the union at the top and to the flag's own right.
Outdoor Display
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If a church has only one outdoor flagstaff to display the flag, the United States flag must always be displayed above any other religious or state flag. If there are two flagstaffs, no flag should be displayed to the right of the United States flag. If there are three or more flagstaffs, the United States flag should be displayed at the center of the flags and at the highest point above the other flags.
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In a Parade
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If a church has a float in a parade, the flag must always be displayed on a staff, never draped over the side of the float. If the flag is carried in a procession, it should always be on the marching right, or if there is a line of flags, it should be in front of the center of the other flags. The flag should never be used as a decoration or part of a marcher's clothing.
Respect for Service
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When a funeral service is being held for a deceased service member who is being honored for service to the country, the flag is to be draped over the casket with the union at the head and over the left shoulder. The flag should never be lowered into the grave or allowed to touch the ground. At the conclusion of the graveside service, the flag is to be properly folded and respectfully presented to the service member's next of kin.
Services at Sea
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An exception to flag etiquette has been given to naval chaplains conducting religious services at sea. During religious services performed by chaplains at sea, a church pennant may be displayed above the United States flag during the service for Navy personnel. As soon as the church service is over, the United States flag must be returned to its position of honor above all other flags and pennants on the ship.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit church & flags image by Katrina Miller from Fotolia.com
