"Blessed are the Peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God." Matthew 5:9

Tuesday, September 11, 2001, was a day of profound shock and sorrow for America and the world, as thousands of innocent lives were lost to the faceless evil of terrorism. We join with millions around the world in extending our deepest sympathy and sincere prayers for the victims of this staggering tragedy and their families. The United States will never be the same after the horrors of this day. As religious leaders from many denominations and faith traditions, we urge all Americans to consider the meaning of this moment in our history, and what we must do together to overcome this tragedy and secure peace for our children, and a hopeful future for all humankind.

These horrendous crimes were acts of anger and hatred. We must not fall victim to the very same anger, nor be paralyzed by fear; we must rise above them. Terrorism is an evil that can be neither justified nor tolerated. But likewise, it will never be stopped by mere force of arms. Governments must act to protect and defend their citizens, but no weapon or army, no law or prison will end the cycle of violence unless we can heal its root causes. This is the task of spiritual leaders.

The American Clergy Leadership Conference is issuing a call for religious leaders of all denominations and faith traditions to stand together in prayer, to reach deeply within our souls for the faith, the love, the compassion, and the determination to heal our hearts, our homes, and our nation. On Saturday, September 22, 2001 at Madison Square Garden in New York City we will reaffirm the strength and unity of the human family under God’s guidance and seek every possible way to ensure that no further hurt, harm or danger comes to our communities. At the same time, we must lead this nation and its government not simply to vengeance, but to healing… It’s time to pray.

Tens of thousands of families have been devastated by the loss of loved ones through this tragedy. We cannot end their suffering, but let us embrace and share it, offering whatever comfort and support that we can. Through the devastating collapse of the World Trade Center or an airplane exploding into the Pentagon, in one terrible moment the fragility of our lives became clear on September 11. The quick action of civic authority was crucial, and the sacrifice and heroism of police, firemen and rescue workers during this time of tragedy must never be forgotten. In such awful moments, however, no government or military can guarantee our safety or future. In fact, we cannot even be sure of what waits around the next corner, or with tomorrow’s sunrise. Our faith in God, whose love is eternal and unchanging, the quality and purpose of our lives, the love of family and friends; these offer more security, permanence and meaning than buildings which crumble or the everyday routines upon which we depend.

As our families provide strength and meaning, they are also the instruments of love, peace and morality for every society on the face of the earth. Let our families come together, to mourn, yes; but also to heal, and to find strength in our unity and in our God, and hope for the future of our nation and world. We will ask God to heal our land, anoint our families, bless our homes and lead our churches, mosques and temples to fulfill the covenant that His Kingdom is coming with His righteousness… It’s time to pray.

On Saturday, September 22 from J, Madison Square Garden will become a garden of prayer. People of all denominations and races will gather to pray as one. A choir of 3000 voices representing all faiths will comfort our hearts and uplift our spirits. Gospel legends "The Mighty C, Madison Square Garden will become a garden of prayer. People of all denominations and races will gather to pray as one. A choir of 3000 voices representing all faiths will comfort our hearts and uplift our spirits. Gospel legends "The Mighty CJy" and Bobby Banks will lead us in worship and praise. Reverend Wyatt Tee Walker, Rev. Preston Washington, Bishop Cecil Riley, Archbishop George Stallings, Rev. Pedro Barrios, Rev. Dennis Dillon, Dr. Luckner Laurient, Rev. O.B.J. Burson, Bishop y" and Bobby Banks will lead us in worship and praise. Reverend Wyatt Tee Walker, Rev. Preston Washington, Bishop Cecil Riley, Archbishop George Stallings, Rev. Pedro Barrios, Rev. Dennis Dillon, Dr. Luckner Laurient, Rev. O.B.J. Burson, Bishop J, Dr. Kene Holliday, and thousands of clergy will lead us in prayer, repentance and renewal. Reverend and Mrs. Sun Myung Moon will offer a special blessing for families.

For the future of our country; for the safety of our children; for the solace of those who mourn; for an end to the violence and hatred; to search our national soul; for the unity of the people of God… It’s time to pray.

"They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea." Isaiah 11:9

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