Why We Must Always Remember September 11th
As a proud New York City establishment, we will always remember September 11th. This tragic day changed the world, and as New Yorkers, it was especially heartbreaking for many of our staff and guests who lived through those unforgettable moments. The city we call home faced unimaginable devastation, and yet, amid the darkness, we also witnessed acts of incredible strength, resilience, and compassion.
In the face of the worst evil, we saw the best of humanity. Strangers became family, helping one another through the terror and uncertainty. People showed courage and selflessness. It is in remembering this spirit of solidarity that we honor the fallen, the survivors, and the heroes who sacrificed so much for the safety of others. This significance of September 11th must never fade from our hearts, for it stands as a reminder of the power of love over hate, of unity in times of great suffering.
We must always remember September 11th to show our respect and honor the heroes who put the safety of others before their own. Let us remember to pray for eternal peace for the many souls that we lost and the people who are still suffering from 9/11-related illnesses. We must keep in our hearts the families that are still trying to heal so many years later. And, let us remember to stand united in our resolve to overcome hate with love.
As we reflect on 9/11, we offer a prayer for those who perished, the survivors who carry the weight of that day, and the families who continue to grieve.
A Prayer to Always Remember September 11th
Heavenly Father,
On this day of remembrance, we come before You with hearts full of reflection and reverence. We remember the tragic events of September 11th, and we lift up in prayer all those whose lives were forever changed. We pray for the souls of those who were lost, may they find eternal peace in Your loving arms. Comfort their families, Lord, as they continue to heal from their unimaginable loss. May Your grace surround them and bring them strength on this difficult day and always.
We give thanks for the heroes who emerged on that dark day—the first responders, the selfless strangers, and all who acted with courage and compassion. Bless them, Lord, for their bravery, and help us to never forget the sacrifices they made. Let their example inspire us to act with kindness and courage in our own lives.
As we remember the pain of that day, we also reflect on the unity that followed. Bring us together, Lord, as You did in the aftermath of 9/11. Help us to bridge divides, extend love to our neighbors, and work toward a world where peace and understanding reign. In a world that still feels broken, may Your spirit of unity and hope guide us forward.
In Your Holy Name, we pray.
Amen.
Father Mychal Judge, a Franciscan friar with the FDNY, also lost his life that day. We pray for him and recite his prayer, “Lord, take me where you want me to go; let me meet who you want me to meet; tell me what you want me to say; and keep me out of your way.”
As we move forward, may we carry the spirit of unity that arose from that tragic day. May we never forget the lessons it taught us about the power of coming together as one. As you go about your days, remember to never take a single second of life for granted.
