Reflection on September 11

Today we remember September 11, 2001. With each anniversary of this tragedy, we are called to connect with God and acknowledge those lives lost in violence and in the act of trying to save others. We offer this reflection and prayer:

Lord God, source of love on this earth, we approach another anniversary of a day that shook and challenged our country. You, Oh God, have bestowed on us freedoms and the light of liberty. May our words and actions continue to promote hope for a future defined by peace.

We pray for families that lost loved ones in the days and years that followed September 11, 2001 as a result of the acts of violence that struck our country.  We pray for protection for our nation and the many ways we bring our ideals out to the world. With deep gratitude O God of life, we remember the first responders who knew that human lives needed to be saved and rushed to serve our fellow citizens.

Lord, we need You, we thank You, and may we be Your hope.

Amen.