Six Years later, We still remember those lost on September 11th.

This past weekend, our parish community of St. Ephrem (Dyker Heights section of Brooklyn) gathered together once again in prayer with the nine families of those lost on September 11th. Although six years have passed, the sadness, the tears and broken hearts remain quite visible. Yet each family welcomes the chance to be together again and to pray for their loved ones. They are grateful for the community's expressions of love, sympathy and support.

The statue of Jesus you see to the left is the centerpiece of our Garden of Hope Memorial dedicated to them and all those who perished that day.

In 2002, a committee comprised of parishioners and 9/11 family members was formed. It was unanimous that all would receive great comfort knowing that our Our Lord Jesus, the Good Shepherd, was present that morning, leading his children home.

The statue is surrounded by tall evergreen trees and nine memorial plaques dedicated to: Richard Caggiano, Jude Safi, Robert Tipaldi, Charles Mauro, Maria LaVache, Dennis O'Berg, Donald Gavigan, Thomas Wise and Arturo Sererno. A tenth plaque is dedicated to all those who have died in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania. Below the statue of Jesus is another large plaque with the words from the prophet Isaiah. "I will never forget you, see in the palms of my hands I have written your name; your walls are every before me." Isaiah 49: 15-16

As the anniversary approaches each year, each of us can not forget where we were when these tragic events were unfolding. I like so many others witnessed these attacks first hand. My office was directly across the street from the Trade Center. When the first plane hit the North Tower, my office building shook with great force and an unforgettable sonic boom-like noise deafened our ears.

In disbelief we all starred and watched the second plane hit the south tower. It was only then we realized that our country was being attacked.

I too witnessed those desperate souls jumping from the buildings. I never in my entire life felt so helpless. All I could do was pray.

Today, let's pause and pray for those who have died and for their families that are still grieving. May we never forget those precious lives lost and may we all dedicate ourselves to a peaceful and secure world.

The following prayer was recited at our dedication ceremony:
Father in heaven, we look to you for peace in a world filled with anger. We look to you for hope in a world filled with despair. We look to you for love in a world filled with hatred.

May those who lost their lives find peace in your Kingdom. May families and friends left behind, find solace in Your love.

May a world shattered by these tragedies, find healing in your strength. O Merciful Lord, guide our future with Your wisdom. Bestow tranquility on our world. Bring compassion to our hearts. Amen.


This statue of Jesus holding the towers close to his heart was designed by the committee and sculptured by the world renown Demetz Statuary Company of Italy. It was dedicated September 2004. Since it was a gift to our 9/11 families, the statue's design has been copyrighted. Therefore, no photograph taken and no model or imitation of the statue can be reproduced for a profit.