As we remember, never forget

 (I was asked to provide the invocation at a community 9/11 remembrance ceremony)

Photo by Paul Doherty of the reflection of the pilings in Oak Bluffs Harbor that resembles the Twin Towers.

God in community, holy in One,



As we remember the pain of that tragic September day 22 years ago,

May we never forget the unshakeable, unbreakable covenant called humanity.



As we remember the bravery of those who chose the safety of others over their own lives,

May we never forget that the loss of every human being to violence is a cause for grief and trauma.



As we remember this wound, this ache, this scar

May we never forget what makes for healing, reconciliation, and restoration.



As we remember how vulnerable we all felt that day, how the world seemingly changed in an instant, and for those who lost loved ones, it actually did,

May we never forget how the impact of our choices can affect the future of others.



As we remember how people in this country and around the world came together in a spirit of unity—watching our screens, comforting each other, donating blood, holding prayer vigils,

May we never forget our Muslim and Sikh friends, our Afghan and Pakistani neighbors who still suffer from bigotry and hate.



As we remember an act of terrorism, which became a prelude to war,

May we never forget that we can also be agents for peace and for justice.



Kindred One, as we remember this day may we never forget

The interconnectedness and the sacredness of all living things

Our willingness to disrupt our lives for others

How to be curious rather than judgmental

How good and pleasant it truly is when kindred live together in unity.


Amen.