Dear Companions on the Faith Journey,

On this day, the twenty-fifth anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, a heightened sense of remembrance and reflection has been present in news, social media, and our own memories. Even with over two decades of distance, the stories of shock, tragedy, horror, and heroism bring us right back to that day. 

We have learned to live with the sorrow, grief, and despair of that day and its memory. The fact that we carry on, however, does not mean we have forgotten those we lost that day. We also remember those who have died or continue to suffer in the months and years after the attacks due to illnesses related to search, rescue, and recovery efforts. 

With gratitude we remember the extraordinary sense of unity that enveloped our nation when we pulled together as one people of these blessed United States. This anniversary may be especially tender for some of us. And for some who were too young to remember or were born in the years since, this day may seem unfathomable.

I hope that you will be kind and gentle to yourself and those around you. Your unique response in remembering September 11 is to be honored and held carefully by you and your companions on the journey. We all remember and reflect in different ways.

Know that I pray regularly for the peace and protection of all God’s people. Today, I especially ask for God’s comfort and peace for all who mourn. And I pray that we might live again as one people, united in our care and concern for each other.

Our Loving God in heaven, you see our struggles and enter our troubles and terror alongside us. Give us the courage to mourn, the strength to care for family, friend, and stranger alike, and the willingness to carry your healing presence into every place marked by the tragedy of terror. Through the mercy of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Grace and peace,

The Rt. Rev. Carlye J. Hughes

Bishop of Newark