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New York Archbishop Emphasizes Healing, Peace at 9/11 Vigil Mass
Confirmed
In Short: Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks of New York highlighted the ongoing need for active pursuit of healing, peace, justice, and unity during a vigil Mass marking the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
At a vigil Mass on the eve of the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks of New York emphasized the active nature of healing, peace, justice, and unity. Hicks, speaking to a congregation of about 2,000 clergy and laypeople at St Patrick’s Cathedral, noted that these values do not just happen but require constant effort and commitment.
The Mass began with a procession by the NYPD Pipes and Drums and a color guard representing all of the city’s first responder units. Hicks reflected on the initial response to the attacks, mentioning funerals, comfort for grieving families, and the establishment of the 9/11 Museum and memorial foundations.
He highlighted the mural in St. Patrick’s Cathedral’s narthex, artist Adam Cvijanovic’s “What’s So Funny About Peace, Love, and Understanding,” which includes a panel depicting first responders. Hicks called for continued commitment to healing together and noted the ongoing efforts of civic leaders in the city.
In his homily, Hicks stated, 'Faith does not allow us to stop at remembrance,' emphasizing the importance of ongoing action and unity. The Mass was celebrated in honor of the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and included the participation of other civic leaders such as New York Police Department Chief Jessica Tisch and Fire Department of New York Chief John M. Tobin.
What's confirmed
- At a vigil Mass on the eve of the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks of New York emphasized the active nature of healing, peace, justice, and unity. Hicks, speaking to a congregation of about 2,000 clergy and laypeople at St Patrick’s Cathedral, noted that these values do not just happen but require constant effort and commitment.
- The Mass began with a procession by the NYPD Pipes and Drums and a color guard representing all of the city’s first responder units. Hicks reflected on the initial response to the attacks, mentioning funerals, comfort for grieving families, and the establishment of the 9/11 Museum and memorial foundations.
- He highlighted the mural in St. Patrick’s Cathedral’s narthex, artist Adam Cvijanovic’s “What’s So Funny About Peace, Love, and Understanding,” which includes a panel depicting first responders. Hicks called for continued commitment to healing together and noted the ongoing efforts of civic leaders in the city.
- In his homily, Hicks stated, 'Faith does not allow us to stop at remembrance,' emphasizing the importance of ongoing action and unity. The Mass was celebrated in honor of the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and included the participation of other civic leaders such as New York Police Department Chief Jessica Tisch and Fire Department of New York Chief John M. Tobin.
What's still developing
- “At first, we attended funerals, countless funerals. We comforted grieving families and friends. We gathered for Masses and prayer services. We cared for first responders and survivors. We donated to human service organizations that led multi-year efforts of continued assistance and aid,” he said.
- “We rebuilt Lower Manhattan and the World Trade Center. We created the 9/11 Museum. We established foundations and scholarships in memory of those who died. We came together across religious traditions to pray for peace,” Archbishop Hicks said.
- He framed healing, peace, justice and unity as active pursuits that “we have to work for … day after day. Conversation after conversation. Relationship after relationship. Agreement after agreement. And we have to strive for it … together,” he said.
- Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
- Tobin of Newark, New Jersey; Archbishop Gabriele G.
- Caccia, apostolic nuncio to the United States; New York Auxiliary Bishops Edmund J.