As we enter the month of September, uppermost in everyone’s mind is the fateful day of Sept. 11, 2001. This is another date in our American history that has left an indelible mark on our country. The impact of this senseless act of death and devastation has served to make many people revaluate life’s priorities. This terrible date on the calendar will be revisited in the spoken and written word around the world. As we remember this day may we include the following petitions in our prayers:

1. Pray for continuing comfort for the families who lost loved ones and are trying to go on with their lives.

2. Express thanks for those who gave their lives sacrificially in making every attempt to save others.

3. Pray for the grace to show the same selfless concern for others that we saw in so many individuals in their response to tragedy.

4. Pray that we will become more generous in our giving and meet the total needs of others near at hand and far away.

5. Give thanks for the countless number of volunteers who helped life the heavy burdens of sorrow and loss. Let their examples inspire and challenge us to volunteer for opportunities of service wherever we are.

6. Pray for everyone to live by the great commandment. “To love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and your neighbors as yourself.”

7. Pray that we will truly see others as persons, not things, and seek to lift their loads when they are too heavy to carry alone.

8. Pray that our hearts will be replenished with love for everyone.

9. Pray that we will always remember that faith, hope and love are life’s lasting qualities, and that we will be living examples of these qualities to others.

10. Thank God that we live in the United States of America and may that blessing prompt us to remember daily that to whom much is given, much will be required.

No doubt there are other petitions you may want to add to this list of ten. May we all pray the familiar “Prayer for Protection.”

The light of God surrounds us;

The love of God enfolds us;

The power of God protects us;

The presence of God watches over us.

Wherever we are, God is!



Dr. Curtis Coleman is Emeritus Dean and Professor of Religion and Philosophy at Athens State University.