Archdiocese of Newark commemorates the 23rd anniversary of Sept. 11
The faithful came together on Sept. 11 for memorial Masses, prayer services, and moments of silence to honor the victims and heroes of the tragic day.
On Wednesday, the State of New Jersey hosted its official ceremony commemorating the 23rd anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks at the Empty Sky Memorial at Liberty Park in Jersey City. Bishop Gregory J. Studerus, auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Newark, offered words of solace and led the community in a candlelight vigil, bringing everyone together in remembrance and unity.
Bishop Studerus reflected on the tragic day’s lasting impact, speaking of the lives lost, the enduring wounds of grief, and the strength of the American spirit.
He emphasized how the attacks sought to break the nation’s spirit, but instead, acts of compassion, generosity, and unity prevailed.
“Here, on this side of the river, we cherish this memorial. These two great towering walls also present an empty void between them,” he said. “But that void is not empty. Indeed, these are walls of strength and confidence of the American spirit. Lining them with names, we feel the presence of those who have not merely lost their lives but who remain in hearts and minds even today. We grieve with those who have lost them, and we know ourselves not to be part of a spiritless void. But that we are the ones renewing ourselves again and again with the American spirit.”
The Empty Sky Memorial is a testament to the past and a reminder that the American spirit endures, holding to the truths of unity, compassion, and the pursuit of liberty and justice for all.
(Courtesy of Archdiocese of Newark/Shania Mosquera)
Memorials throughout the Archdiocese
Parishes and schools across the Archdiocese of Newark commemorated the 23rd anniversary of Sept. 11 with tributes to emphasize themes of remembrance, unity, and hope.
On Sunday, Sept. 8, Seton Hall University gathered as a community to honor the heroes and victims of Sept. 11 with a memorial Mass and vigil. (Courtesy of Seton Hall University’s Campus Ministry)
Students and staff of Saint Joseph School in Oradell prayed for all the victims of Sept. 11 at a morning Mass with parishioners. (Courtesy of Saint Joseph School)
Mount Saint Dominic student Giuliana Alagia attended a ceremony at Eagle Rock Reservation in Montclair and read the names of individuals who died that day. Mount principal Dr. Karen D’Avino and Mount athletics director Lorenzo Sozio also attended. (Courtesy of Mount Saint Dominic)
During morning prayers, Academy of Our Lady in Glen Rock remembered the fallen heroes and victims of Sept. 11. The names of the victims that lived in Glen Rock and Ridgewood were honored. (Courtesy of Academy of Our Lady)
