One is a place of worship that’s been an institution in the borough for over two centuries.

The other stalwarts were part of two teams that blazed a trail as giants on the gridiron.

What they all share in common is the respect and pride they’ve earned from their constituents.

Several groups were recognized with proclamations by Palmerton Borough Council on Thursday.

St. John’s Lutheran Church

Councilman Andrew Hollywood read a proclamation for St. John’s Lutheran Church, which recently celebrated its 225th anniversary.

Hollywood said the church “Is a cornerstone of our community with a belief system deep rooted in love for God.”

He added that council recognizes the “invaluable contributions of the organization to the community,” which “continues to serve the community’s spiritual needs.”

Council formally commended St. John’s Lutheran Church “for its long and rich history,” and “extends its deepest appreciation and best wishes to all the church members, past and present, of the borough for its 225th anniversary.”

Hollywood presented the proclamation to Mary Fronheiser, who serves as council president of St. John’s Lutheran Church.

High school football team

Councilman Kris Hoffner read a proclamation for the 2023 Palmerton High School football team.

Hoffner said the team “has proven to be an elite group of athletes,” and that council “recognizes the dedication of the players and coaches through practice and games to improve their skills.”

He said the team “has played an outstanding season”, and that council “commends the team and extends its best wishes and congratulations to all the players.”

Hoffner presented the proclamation to high school football head coach Chris Walkowiak, who was joined by team members Clayton Christman, Emilio Gonzalez, and Ty Sander. The team went 10-0 in the regular season and finished the season 12-1.

Booster Club varsity football team

Councilman William Gallagher read a proclamation for the Palmerton Booster Club varsity football team.

Gallagher said the proclamation was for the “120-pound division for its undefeated season,” and that council “recognizes the efforts of the players through practice and games to improve their skills.”

He added that council “congratulates the Palmerton Booster Club Varsity Football Team,” and “extends its best wishes to all the players.”

No one from the team was on hand to accept the proclamation.