This Thursday marks the 24th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. We as a nation recall the tragic deaths and injuries that occurred at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and on the fields of Shanksville, Pennsylvania. We also remember those men and women who gave their lives or who were injured that day in the line of duty.
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. 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 we reflect on the words of Cardinal Dolan, this day helps us remember not only the events of this tragedy but also reminds us of the dangers that continue to confront us in an unstable world. As Catholics, we are challenged to respond in faith to the pressing concerns of our brothers and sisters in need, and to remember especially all those who suffered in some way on that fateful day of September 11, 2001. We continue to offer special prayers for our men and women in uniform who defend our freedoms, and we also pray for their families and the military chaplains who assist them.
The following prayer, called “A Prayer for Healing from 9/11 Trauma,” provided by the media outlet, “Prayerlit”, asks for the Lord’s mercy and healing:
Dear Lord, we come before You with heavy hearts,
remembering the tragedies of 9/11.
We pray for the healing of all those who suffered physical,
emotional, and mental wounds.
May Your comforting presence bring peace
to those still in pain and grant them the strength to overcome their struggles.
We trust that You are the great Healer,
and we ask for Your mercy on the souls of the departed.
Help us to find solace in Your love.
As we reflect on this prayer, we are also invited to pray for peace among nations. We 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.