Rockwall, TX – May 23, 2026 – On Saturday, the Rockwall County Commissioners Court celebrated the unveiling of the Ten Commandments Monument with a dedication ceremony on the northeast corner of the Historic Courthouse lawn. “The Ten Commandments are a cornerstone of the moral and historical foundation of the laws and legal system of the United States,” noted Commissioner Lorne Liechty. “It is fitting for our County to honor this by memorializing these Commandments on our Courthouse lawn.”
Kicking off the event, Commissioner Liechty extended a warm welcome, followed by an invocation from Pastor Stephen Grays of New Hope Baptist Church. State Representative Katrina Pierson led the crowd in the pledge of allegiance to the American flag, with State Senator Bob Hall guiding the pledge to the Texas State flag. These moments were beautifully complemented by Brittney Jenkins’ rendition of “Amazing Grace.” Mike Berry from First Liberty Institute highlighted the vital nature of religious freedom in America’s success and future, emphasizing the legality of monuments like the one in Rockwall. County Judge Frank New inspired attendees with a heartfelt message about using our free will to embrace God’s love, while Pastor Brad Howard of Lakeshore Church closed with a benediction. Melva Phelps, a Rockwall resident, lifted spirits with her performance of “God Bless America” just before the monument’s unveiling.
Commissioner Dana Maclik expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating, “I am thankful for the moral and guiding principles instilled in me by the Ten Commandments. Their timeless wisdom shapes our actions and relationships, grounded in morality, ethics, honesty, and respect.” Commissioner John Stacy shared his excitement about seeing the monument become a focal point in Downtown, proudly recounting his role in making it a reality. He extended thanks to his fellow Commissioners, especially Commissioner Liechty, for their support in bringing the project to fruition.
The monument has been made possible through generous private donations from community members and organizations, with funds dedicated to landscaping and enhancements around the monument. “It has been inspiring to witness our community unite around this project,” declared Liechty. “In my over 30 years of public service, I have never seen such consistently positive responses as with our decision to install this monument honoring the Ten Commandments.”
“It is certainly true that a popular government cannot flourish without virtue in the people.” – Richard Henry Lee, Signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Submitted by Jim Barto, Rockwall County Public Information Officer
