Christ in the World
United Church Commemorates 9/11
September 6, 2011
It’s been 10 years since the tragedy of 9/11, an event that took the lives of many and shook the consciousness and spirit of North Americans and world.
To commemorate these tragic events, the United Church moderator has this prayer for us:
http://www.youtube.com/unitedchurchofcanada#p/a/u/0/CIRuyr5oniQ
Here is the text:
A Prayer for September 11
Lover of All Humanity, Christ of Compassion and Mercy,
Spirit who yearns for all to live in Holy Peace and Joy,
We call to mind all who perished in the collapse of the towers:
(a moment for silent remembering)
We call to mind as well
those who suffer today from the loss of their loved ones,
emergency workers, firemen and women
who immediately responded to the alarms.
Too many of these perished as well.
And too many of those who did not perish
share lingering nightmares and illness
because of their faithful daring.
We pray for the children who lost parents that day,
for parents who lost children that day,
for visitors caught unawares,
for people at work and at home near Ground Zero,
for all who at great distances
still live in judgment
and thus in fear today.
Hear us as we silently lift up our sorrow to you:
(a moment for silent intercession)
We acknowledge this day
That we do not love our enemy deeply
Nor bless abundantly those who curse us.
And at this anniversary,
We find your call to forgive so difficult.
Yet we are not alone, we live in your world.
Gather us all into your embrace.
As your beloved children,
we know we are interrelated with one another
though oceans or history may hold us apart.
Inspire us to join with all who seek to understand
and who take part in interfaith dialogues and conversations.
Hear us as we speak silently the needs we have today:
(a moment for silent supplication)
We know our great work with You, O God,
continues.
Bless us on this grace-filled journey
in the name of the Prince of Peace.
AMEN.
Written by Betty Lynn Schwab, CIM