9/11 Memorial Mass: 25th Anniversary

A memorial Mass sponsored by Mission and Ministry was held in Our Lady's Chapel on Thursday, September 10, remembering 25 years since 9/11. The UIW community gathered to prayerfully reflect on the tragedy and the challenges of creating a more peaceful world. Right Rev. Trevor Alexander, DD, adjunct faculty and UIW's Protestant Chaplain, designed the service so people of all faiths could come together and stand in solidarity, reflecting on the memory of those who lost their lives that day. Included in the service, prayers and scriptures of Hebrew, Hindu and Islamic traditions were recited by UIW faculty who represented their faiths.

The UIW Police Department and the Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing were recognized and blessed by Alexander. On Friday, September 11, the "Flag of Heroes" will be hung at the entrance of the chapel as a reminder of the 25TH anniversary of 9/11. The flag contains the names of the emergency service personnel who gave their lives trying to save others on that tragic day.

Guest speaker Chaplain Kristian Carlson, U.S. Navy and former UIW Military Skillbridge Program recipient, also a former intern of Alexander, reflected on the impact of 9/11, sharing his personal experiences and the broader national trauma. "I hope that this intercession today for 9/11, your story, where you were, loved ones you lost, you're going to be able to think about both your own loss but also of God's heart."

He encouraged lamentation, reflection and finding solace in faith, urging the community to honor the memories of the victims and to seek comfort in God. Carlson encouraged thoughtful reflection: "Do you know that sorrow and grief and pensiveness can be quickly met by joy, hope and friendship?" He and Alexander suggested walking campus alone or with a friend to take a pause in our own lives and understand the love and safety provided by God.

On this day of solemn remembrance
May we honor the lives that were lost in this tragic act.
May we give thanks for those who served and saved, rendered aid and assistance.
May we give comfort to those who live with loss.
May we seek justice and peace where it is within our ability,
and rely on You when the ability escapes us

On this day of solemn remembrance:
May we build what has been torn down.
May we mend what has been broken.
May live Your love when hate seems to reign.
May we bear witness to the cause of peace.

By Derek Weber