 RESPONSE TO THE TRAGEDY OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
The Franciscan Sisters of Peace and Associates, as a response to the events of 9/11, have been praying daily the PRAYER IN TIME OF TERRORISM distributed by Pax Christi. As peacemakers we struggle with the use of violence to counteract violence and we invite you to pray with us.
PRAYER IN TIME OF TERRORISM
O God, I do not know where to turn in a time of terrorism. I have no easy answers or solutions to acts of terrorism against the innocent. When buildings explode without warning, when the defenseless are murdered without reason, I am tempted to retaliate without reason. I am tempted to retaliate with vengeance. I am tempted to place the flag above the cross and put my faith in the state rather than in the Sermon on the Mount. I am afraid to face my deepest fears of suffering and death, both for myself and those I love.
O God, be merciful to me a sinner and understand my weakness, my lack of trust. I lift my heart to a God of forgiveness, of compassion, of peace. I believe that You are not present in any act of violence. I believe that every human being is a child of God and that all nations and religions are embraced by You. I believe that violence ignites greater violence and that in the long line of history our only lasting legacy is love.
I recommit myself to nonviolence as a witness of Your love. I will cast out fear and boldly live love for neighbor and enemy. I will cast out fear and renounce hatred, desire for revenge and works of war. I will cast out fear and publicly proclaim that You are a God of unlimited and unconditional love.
I recommit myself to nonviolence as a witness of Your love. I will embrace the suffering of others and wipe every tear from their eyes. I will devote my days to works of mercy and justice, not to deeds of death and destruction. I will give my passion to kindness and beauty and imagination. I commit to hope and the children of tomorrow.
By Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB
Distributed by Pax Christs, USA
|