As we know, we are still in the midst of the devastating impact of the COVID-19 virus. The fabric of our country and our world has changed dramatically in these last few months. While preoccupied with the impact of this virus, many paused recently to focus on the events of September 11, 2001.
This past Friday marked the nineteenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks of “9/11”. We as a nation recalled the tragic deaths and injuries that occurred at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and on the fields of Somerset, Pennsylvania. As a faith community, we celebrated a special Mass for Peace at Saint Brigid. The Mass helped us to remember not only the events of that fateful day but also served to remind us of the dangers that continue to confront us.
Commenting on this tragedy, as previously noted, the United States Bishops stated, “After September 11, we are a wounded people. We share loss and pain, anger and fear, shock, and determination in the face of these attacks on our nation and our humanity. We also honor the selflessness of firefighters, police, chaplains, and other braves individuals who gave their lives in the service of others. They are true heroes and heroines.”
As a way to focus on the events of that day and its aftermath, we are invited to reflect on following “9-11” PRAYER” by David Bennet provided by the publication “TheChurchYear.Net”. The publication stated that the terrorist attacks of “9/11” “deeply impacted the United States of America, and the entire world, changing the course of modern history. This prayer focuses on the souls of those who were killed in the attack, and for the conversion of the hearts of anyone who wishes violence and harm on innocent people.”
Father, on this anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, we pray that You comfort all those still suffering from this terrible tragedy.
We pray for the souls of all those who lost their lives in this, and all, terrorist attacks.
And, may all those consumed by hatred of others, be touched by Your divine love.
We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
As we reflect on this prayer, we are invited to continue to ask for the special intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Queen of Peace. We are also encouraged to continue to remember in a special way the first responders and all those who suffered in some way on that fateful day of September 11, 2001.