Even after 12 years have passed, the tragedy that occurred on Sept. 11, 2001 still profoundly impacts those who are left to carry on after the deaths of their loved ones on that fateful day.
On Sept. 11, the Catholic Student Association held a formal prayer in honor of 9/11 victims during which they also asked God for peace in Syria and to the world.
“We wanted to coordinate a little prayer group in remembrance of all the victims of 9/11, the families, the soldiers, but also to pray for peace around the world, especially for Syria,” said Garrett Tregre, senior engineering technology major and president of CSA. “It’s one of the big topics in our government right now, and you see it on the news, all the struggles that are going on right now. We really want to pray for those people. We want peace for them.”
Jacob Currier, senior history major and state president of Louisiana Catholic College Students, sees hope on the horizon in Syria. Currier believes that the silver lining came into view as a result of worldwide prayer.
“We really don’t want to see another war because we went in blindly, in my opinion, after Saddam Hussein allegedly had chemical weapons; there wasn’t much proof,” said Currier. “This time we actually had proof, but the diplomatic channels are working well, and I’m attributing that to prayer. Pope Francis called for all Catholics for a day of fasting and prayer last Saturday, and I’m attributing all the good that’s been coming to that.”
Seth Galtier, senior music education major, is not a member of CSA, but was asked to play Amazing Grace on the trumpet during the prayer. Galtier has been personally affected by loss, but his faith helped him get through it. He urges those who suffered loss from 9/11 to find healing in prayer.
“Be strong, and keep pushing through it,” said Galtier. “I’ve lost loved ones, and they’re always there in spirit. Just constantly, constantly pray about it if you’re having a hard time.”
Tregre had one final message to those who lost loved ones on 9/11.
“Quite honestly, the best thing that I could say is I love you, and I’m here for you whenever you need it, and our prayers are here for you.”