President Bush has asked the nation to come together at this hour to show our solidarity with all Americans who are grieving over the terrible tragedy that has befallen our nation. We really have no words that are adequate to express our shock at what has happened and the revulsion we feel toward those who would commit such horrid crimes. But we have each other for comfort to try to get through this with family and friends who we know care about our vulnerability, our fear, and our anguish.
We come together to share in the pain we feel at the loss of innocent lives who were taken from us by an act of unspeakable terror.
We share in the anguish of so many families who have not yet heard about the fate of their loved ones. And we offer our heartfelt condolences to those families who have received confirmation of loss.
And we must be honest in revealing the anger we feel at people and governments who would enable and support murder of innocent men, women, and children.
At the same time we wish to praise all those brave souls who at the risk of their own lives went in to save others. To those who did not return as well as to those who are still out at ground zero, you are our heroes.
We wish to acknowledge the overwhelming response of all New Yorkers who have volunteered in so many ways to lend assistance. As well we want to recognize the good wishes of those from all over our fair land and, indeed, from all over the world.
Democracy and freedom have been dealt a terrible blow and our innocence has forever been shattered. But we have witnessed an incredible display of solidarity and bonding with all Americans who now understand that terrorists achieve their aim by invoking terror, and that we can no longer allow those perpetrators and the governments who harbor them to operate with impunity. Yes, we are afraid. But we will not let fear overtake us and give victory to those who would like nothing more than to see us cower.
And, therefore, as the president has said time and time again, we want to demonstrate our resolve to combat terrorism and root it out so that all peace-loving people can enjoy the freedoms they so deserve.
We pray for the recovery of our nation and for the prevention of such acts now and in the future.
Amen