Multifaith, Interfaith Responses to Terrorist Attacks (September)

September 13, 2001

Source: The Christian Science Monitor

On September 13, 2001, The Christian Science Monitor reported on the acts of goodness that have followed the terrorist attacks. "From the terror comes humanity. Thousands of New Yorkers line up to give blood. A Presbyterian church hands out cups of cold water to parched walkers stranded in the city. Medical students volunteer their services at hospitals. The largest Jewish temple in New York asks a Christian minister and a Muslim holy man to participate in Rosh Hashana, part of the Jewish High Holidays, to show that religions can't be divided." The article noted many of the ways this tragedy is bringing out the best in people through acts of charity, kindness, and interfaith unity. "In Seattle, a service at an inner-city parish drew people of all faiths. As people ascended the steps of the terrace to place their lit candles on the ground, a mournful bagpipe played. Soon, hundreds of candles flickered, and Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, and Christians cried and hugged one another for support."