None of us will ever forget the horror of last September's terrorist attacks on our country. We all remember so clearly our initial disbelief, our growing anger, our concern for loved ones and the members of the religious communities we serve. We remember as well the sorrow of so many who came to us to ask painful questions, to cry out their anger and their doubt, and to ask where God was in the midst of this deliberate killing of thousands.

We are thankful that we were able to draw upon the depth of our religious resources to respond to those who came - and continue to come to us and our associates. We are convinced that a faith perspective is so important in dealing with evil, especially of this magnitude. It is faith that can allow us to begin to find meaning even in the face of the death of a loved one. It is faith that can allow us to seek justice without looking for revenge. It is faith that enables us to see the humanity even of those who hate us. It is faith that teaches us that only justice, respect for human dignity and compassion for all will ever produce lasting peace for our world.

One year later, our people remember. We remember all who lost their lives on that tragic day. We remember those who so bravely gave their lives trying to save others in peril or to stop an act of terrorism. We remember those who have died seeking to accomplish justice. We join with all who mourn a loved one, a co-worker, an acquaintance or even our lost innocence.

As religious leaders on Long Island, we join our voices and our hearts especially at this yearly remembrance. We call on all people of good will to dedicate this moment to the service of healing and of peace. We are thankful to all who continue to reach out to the spiritual, emotional and financial needs of the bereaved. We are thankful to the religious teachers who have so clearly shown that no religion can properly be used as an excuse for terror or aggression.

We join together in humble reflection before the awesome mystery of life. We pray for all who are working to end terrorism. We pray for all who are committed to the delicate and challenging work of interreligious understanding. We pray that all people on this island and throughout our country and every country will recommit themselves to the building of a world where all will have the means to live a decent and honorable life. May justice prevail so that peace may survive and prosper.

Long Island Council of Churches

The Rev. Thomas W. Goodhue

Executive Director