The Tenth Anniversary Of Hope (Sept. 11th Discussion)

The tenth anniversary of 9/11 falls on a Sunday, so our feelings, thoughts, and spiritual reflections will be especially poignant this year. What do you remember about September 11, 2001? As a cloud of smoke, dust, and ash rose heavenward ~ what were your first thoughts and feelings? How has 9/11 changed us both individually and as a country? What is it that terror groups hate about us? What is unforgivable? Who is unforgivable? Where and how does our faith intersect with our national life? When is it appropriate for current events to be addressed in the worship service of a faith community? Where was God on 9/11? We know what work the firefighters, paramedics, and others did on 9/11; but what work did God do? Where have we seen the power of God at work in the past 10 years? Ten years after the 9/11 attack, have we forgiven those who sinned against us? Why and why not? Do you think we ever can, or ever will? Is there such a thing as responding to terrorism in a Christ-like fashion? Is there any indication that our Christian beliefs have become stronger in the aftermath of 9/11? If so, where? Are there any signs that Muslims, Christians, and Jews are coming together to do the work of forgiveness and reconciliation? Biblical, national, cultural, familial, and personal stories are handed down from generation to generation. How will we hand the 9/11 story down to the next generation? What will the lessons be?

 On Wednesday, August 31st, at 7PM at the Congregational Church of Patchogue ~ there will be a gathering of people who wish to listen and/or speak about their 9/11 experience and perhaps address some of the above-mentioned questions. All are welcome. Admission is free. But in order for us to provide appropriate seating, etc., we ask you to call the church at 631.475.1235 or email us at office@churchonmainstreet.org if you intend to attend.

Rev. Dwight Lee Wolter