Letter to the Editor: Prayers for the victims of 9/11

Editor's Note: This letter originally appeared in The Herald News in the days after Sept. 11, 2001. It was requested that it be republished today.

On Sept. 11, 2001, I witnessed the killing of 3,000 of my fellow Americans as a result of cowardly acts by people who hate the freedoms we enjoy as Americans. I offer these words to every American who lost his or her life in New York City and Washington, D.C.: You are true heroes; may you never be forgotten.

In God, we place our trust and hope. Violence and cruelty can have no part with you. You guide everything with wisdom and love. Hear our prayers we offer for those who have lost their lives in the attack on America.

May your love and the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ bless and console us, and gently wipe the tears from our eyes and remove fear from our hearts.

Look also with favor on the families who mourn the victims, and comfort them in their loss. Console them in the hope that all who trust in you will find peace and rest in your eternal kingdom. Bless them with your presence and surround them with your love. Guide those in authority. By the wisdom of our leaders and integrity of our citizens, may harmony be restored and justice be served. Grant that peace, the fruit of justice and charity may reign in America and throughout the world.

May God bless America and its leaders in this important chapter in our great history.

Frank Fitta

Father Boehr Council 4753

Tiverton Knights of Columbus