Faith Leaders Respond to 9/11 Anniversary

As anticipated, the world’s and the nation’s hearts are turned today to the anniversary of the terrorist attacks of 9/11, which hit New York’s World Trade Center; the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.; and a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, but touched and changed the world. Faith leaders took time to share thoughts, prayers and reflections on the horrific events of that day and the hope our faith brings amid its lingering effects.

Franklin Graham, CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan’s Purse, reflected via Twitter:

I went to Ground Zero in NYC just days after 9/11. The scope of the destruction was beyond anything I could’ve imagined. I’ll never forget the tireless rescue workers and all the people on the streets looking for their missing loved ones. pic.twitter.com/gAJWuOzGg3

— Franklin Graham (@Franklin_Graham) September 11, 2021

Pastor Robert Morris of Gateway Church shared the words of many others at the end of his tweet, noting “We will never forget”:

Today, on the 20th anniversary of 9/11, we remember those who were injured and lost their lives on that fateful day and honor the sacrifices of the courageous first responders.

We will never forget.#September11 #NeverForget #PatriotDay pic.twitter.com/HVRWa9gF5Y

— Robert Morris (@PsRobertMorris) September 11, 2021

Charismatic megachurch pastor and evangelist Joel Osteen offered his thoughts as well:

We Will Never Forget the Fallen of 9/11.

All those who gave their lives while saving others.

And those still impacted by the tragedy on this day 20 years ago. pic.twitter.com/P9l7pi6RgQ

— Joel Osteen (@JoelOsteen) September 11, 2021

James Robison, popular evangelist and television host, quoted former President George W. Bush in his tweet:

Twenty years ago the world stood still in a state of shock. “America has stood down enemies before, & we will do so this time. None of us will ever forget this day. We go forward to defend freedom & all that is good & just in our world.” Pres. George W. Bush; September 11, 2001.

— James Robison (@revjamesrobison) September 11, 2021

Words of prayer came from Pastor John Hagee:

May peace surround those who have suffered great loss on this horrific day in 2001. Remember 9/11.

— Pastor John Hagee (@PastorJohnHagee) September 11, 2021

Famed worship artist Sandi Patty’s Twittter post included a video of her rendition of “God Bless America” along with a prayer reminder:

Join me in praying for the families & victims impacted by events of that horrific day in 2001. May we be reminded that life is short, there is no time for hate & heroism can be found in ordinary people as we honor the memory of those lost.#NeverForget https://t.co/8sfrFtYP2m

— Sandi Patty (@SandiPattyP) September 11, 2021

Worship band Casting Crowns also shared prayers and remembrances, pointing to the truth that “through Him we can find peace”:

Even 20 years later, we will never forget the impact of 9/11. Although the world is full of difficult situations, we know that through Him we can find peace. We hope that you have peace and hope in your hearts today. John 16:33 pic.twitter.com/OHGJYPe1cr

— Casting Crowns (@castingcrowns) September 11, 2021

Pastor Jack Graham of megachurch Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, shared a poignant meme: