A litany of remembrance, penitence, hope

We remember all those who suffered and died on Sept. 11, 2001, in New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. We remember those who still live and who still suffer because of the events of that day.

When we remember the stockbrokers, office workers, maintenance workers, bystanders, window-washers and all the others who worked together so valiantly to help each other, we can say together,

We remember great courage.

When we recall the firefighters who rushed in to provide assistance as most everyone else was racing out, we can say together,

We remember selfless service.

When we recall the police officers who stood to protect and defend the people and performed their duties until the towers came crashing down on top of them, we can say together,

We remember selfless sacrifice for the safety of others.

When we recall the thousands of workers, women and men, old and young, single and married, American-born and those born in countries around the world who did not escape the buildings, we can say together,

We remember the loss of human life.

When we recall those citizens who rushed to help and did all they could to help, we can say together,

We remember and give thanks for dutiful commitment to those in distress.

When we recall the people who stood in line at the nation's blood banks to make living donations from their very bodies, we can say together,

We give thanks for those who live to pass on life and love.

When we remember the millions of Americans who gave so generously of their life and labor to endow funds to help the survivors and their families recover from their losses, we can say together,

We are grateful for generosity.

God of the ages, before your eyes all empires rise and fall, yet you are changeless. Be near us in this age of terror and in these moments of remembrance. Uphold those who work and watch and wait and weep and love. By your Spirit give rise in us to broad sympathy for all the peoples of your earth. Strengthen us to comfort those who mourn and work in large ways and small for those things that make for peace. Bless the people and leaders of this nation and all nations. Amen.

-- Adapted from a liturgy by the Rev. Eileen W. Lindner and the Rev. Marcel A. Welty, National Council of Churches.