St. Denis Church Hosts A Day of Remembrance For 9/11

Sunday was a day of remembrance.

For the thousands that were affected from the 9/11 attacks 10 years ago, Sunday was a day that they could reflect on the day that changed America forever.

Ten years later, the attacks are not forgotten just in our backyard. At , people of the church and the community showed that they have not put the attacks in the back of their minds.

Holding a special service entitled “From Darkness Into Light,” the choir of Saint. Denis Church put on a performance that touched many in attendance.

The men and women who put in countless hours of defending the country entered the church slowly. Then representatives from local police, firefighters, rescue personnel and The American Legion placed one candle on the main altar for each of the years that have passed since 9/11.

Music director Ralph Purri put together a program that focused heavily on the remembrance of the attacks.

“It is something we can never forget,” said Purri. “The affects of hatred and violence are so ramped and that is what drives it all. We will do whatever we can do to help keep in peoples' minds that peace is the way.” 

Started by a message of peace from Sister Marianna Walsh, many could instantly tell that this wouldn’t be just any service.

Sister Walsh emphasized a “call for peace of all nations,” during her message. She also stated that all countries need to come together and pray for peace.

After everyone in attendance stood to sing “O God Of All The Nations,” the choir took over the show.

“The fact is that we all have a part in peace no matter where we are,” said Purri. “It is just that when we stray from that is when all this violence happens.”

Later on, a slideshow of the terror attacks played in the background as the choir sung. The images included scenes of the planes hitting the towers, and moments that lead to the collapse of the two massive figures.

Some in attendance were moved by the images and a few tears were shed.

One of the main goals of the service was not to only bring people of the Catholic church together for remembering the attacks, but of all religions. Ten years ago, shortly after the attacks, the church held a service calling all religions to pray for the victims of the terrorist attacks.

“It is everybody breathing that has to take part in this regardless what religion you are,” said Purri. “The tenet of most religions talk about peace. It is all there.”

For Purri, his hard work paid off as everything ran smoothly. But he notes that he does it for the victims, not for himself.

 “It is very fulfilling for me because it is a way I can take a part in it,” said Purri. “I can raise awareness through what I do here.”