This Saturday marked the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. 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. We also remembered the men and women in uniform who gave their lives or who were injured that day in the line of duty. We remembered not only the tragic events on that day, but with the recent unfortunate events in Afghanistan, we were also reminded of the dangers that continue to confront us in an unstable world.
As reported in the publication, the National Catholic Register, as previously noted, recalling the events of that day, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, stated, “We reverently recall all those who were most directly affected by this tragedy – those who died, were injured or lost loved ones. In a special way, we recall the selfless first responders – firefighters, police, chaplains, emergency workers, and other brave persons – who risked, and many times lost, their lives in their courageous efforts to save others.”
As Catholics, we are challenged to respond in faith to the pressing concerns of our brothers and sisters in need and to remember in a special way all those who suffered in some way on that fateful day of September 11, 2001.
We continue to pray for our men and women in uniform who defend our freedoms. We also pray for their families and the military chaplains who assist them.
The following “Prayer for 9/11 Anniversary” provided by the Sisters of Mercy focuses on the need for healing. As we reflect on this prayer, we are encouraged to continue to ask for the special intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Queen of Peace, as we pray for peace in our world, peace in our homes, and peace in our hearts.
