Today, September 11, we pause in solemn remembrance of the terrorist attacks that shook the United States and the world in 2001.
The coordinated attacks on the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Virginia, and the crash of United Airlines Flight 93 in Pennsylvania claimed the lives of **2,977** innocent men, women, and children.
Among the victims were:
– **Workers and civilians** – office employees, visitors, and bystanders in the Twin Towers and surrounding areas who were simply living their lives.
– **First responders** – 343 members of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), along with 71 law enforcement officers from the NYPD, Port Authority Police Department, and other agencies who courageously entered the buildings to rescue others.
– **Civilians on the flights** – passengers and crew aboard American Airlines Flight 11, United Airlines Flight 175, American Airlines Flight 77, and United Airlines Flight 93.
– **Pentagon personnel** – 125 military members and civilians working at the Department of Defense headquarters.
We also honor the thousands injured and the families whose lives were forever altered by this tragedy.
## A Prayer for Eternal Peace
Gracious and loving God,
We pray to You today for eternal peace and rest for all the American souls lost during the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. For the workers, the first responders, the civilians, and every innocent life taken that day, welcome them into Your eternal light and grant them the peace that only You can provide.
Comfort the families and loved ones who continue to mourn their loss. Strengthen the survivors, the first responders who served in the aftermath, and all who carry the memory of that day.
May the sacrifice of these lives inspire us to pursue peace, compassion, and unity in our communities and around the world.
We ask this in Your holy name. Amen.
May we never forget.
