From the RectorDear Friends, Tomorrow our nation will gather in solemn solidarity as we remember the tragedies of 9/11, 25 years later. Those of us who were alive at the time can remember exactly where they were when the news broke on that fateful morning. The world was forever changed, and it is remarkable to note that there is now an entire generation of young adults who never knew what life was like before the attacks. The toll on our region was great and indeed is ongoing. Grief and trauma are still felt keenly by many, and more people have died of post-9/11 related injuries and illnesses than died in the attacks themselves. It is truly a legacy of terror. Before we gather to remember the brave and pray for the victims, both living and departed, I invite you to meditate on the following prayer, which was written by our own Bishop Allen K. Shin, as a way to prepare and make space in your hearts and minds to lift up so many souls to Christ. "Gracious and merciful God, on this twenty-fifth anniversary of September 11,
we remember before you
those whose lives were taken,
those who sacrificed themselves in service,
and all whose lives were forever changed.
Receive the departed into your eternal embrace
and comfort those who still carry
the wounds of grief, loss, and trauma.
We give you thanks
for the courage and compassion
that arose amid devastation,
when strangers became neighbors
and fear was met with love.
Turn our hearts toward the work you have given us:
to confront hatred,
resist violence,
welcome the stranger,
seek justice,
and make peace.
By your Holy Spirit,
renew your Church
and awaken us to our baptismal calling
to seek Christ in every person
and respect the dignity of every human being.
May our memory become moral courage,
our grief become compassion,
and our hope become action.
Make us instruments of your peace,
through Jesus Christ our Redeemer. Amen. Blessings,
Father Rick
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