Prayer for the Anniversary of 9/11
A prayer of peace and lament written for the anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks.
Powerful God, our refuge and our strength, we turn to you for peace and security as we recall the 9/11 attack. We thank you for the bravery and the sacrifice of those who saved lives as firefighters, rescue crews, or people aboard United 93.
Comfort and strengthen the family and friends of those who died. Give healing and patience to the survivors of the attacks who are living with continued physical or psychological pain. May those who survived feel gratitude, not guilt. Assure each person whose life changed forever of your protection and strength. Dispel the nightmares; silence the anxiety. May we learn to depend on the security you offer.
We pray for your peace as we remember the terrorism attacks of 9/11. May our suffering from these attacks awaken in us an awareness of the pain and fear that so many around the world live with each day. May we know how to pray for those who struggle against oppression and injustice. As we hear of terrorist activity around the world, quiet our fears. Heal the wounded of these attacks, and help their families and friends rest in your security.
Guide the choices of our world leaders. Give them wisdom and discernment not only as they work to resolve the lasting effects of the 9/11 attacks but also as they try to alleviate terror of all sorts-from genocide to hunger, from drought to bombings. May their actions bring your peace to all the people of the world.
Gracious God, our world changed with the 9/11 attacks. We have seen how easily buildings can fall and how quickly lives can end. As we remember 9/11, may it remind us that you are our only true security. Give us your strength to face the memory of this attack and the changes it made in our lives. Give us your compassion to help each other and recognize need around the world. Give us your hope as we face an uncertain future. Give us your peace.
In the strong name of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit, Amen.