9/11 When Darkness Fell, Light of Love Shone Brighter. Arrive by 5:55 PM. We’ll pray and eat at 6:15 PM. Join us Thursday, September 11 at Frances Farr’s house. On 9/11 each of us remembers where we were. That day changed our nation and our lives, but in the days that followed, we also
witnessed something extraordinary. Neighbors became friends, strangers reached out to help, and people across the country came together in compassion and unity. Over time, much of that unity has faded. Frances and John will serve Waldorf Salad (grapes, apples, celery, walnuts, and raisins in a creamy homemade dressing served on a bed of lettuce). Bring your favorite salads, sides, or 7.5 oz sodas to share. As people of faith, we ask: how can we return to that spirit of brotherly love? In Gander, Newfoundland, between September 11 and September 15, something amazing happened. When 38 planes carrying nearly 7,000 passengers landed in a town of only about 7,000 people. By the Numbers: 2,977 total lives lost on 9/11, 92 killed on American Airlines Flight 11 (North Tower), 65 killed on United Airlines Flight 175 (South Tower), 64 killed on
American Airlines Flight 77 (Pentagon), 44 killed on United Airlines Flight 93 (Shanksville, PA), 2,606 killed at the World Trade Center and surrounding area, 125 killed at the Pentagon, 343 firefighters who gave their lives, 71 law enforcement officers who gave their lives.
Gander by the Numbers: 38 planes diverted to Gander, Newfoundland, 7,000 stranded passengers welcomed into a town of around 7,000. Let’s talk about where we were, how we felt, and how people responded. Let’s reflect
on the unity and kindness that followed 9/11, and what it means for us today. What are some ways people were kinder or more united after 9/11, and how did the whole country pull together? Why do you think it often takes a crisis to bring people together? What motivates people to show such radical hospitality and generosity to strangers? Today we see a lot of division and tension in society—what factors caused us to lose some of that post-9/11 togetherness? How can we regain that sense of mutual respect, kindness, and community? How does ourfaith teach us to persevere and bring good even out of terrible events? Teaching begins at 7:15 PM. At 8:15 PM we’ll discuss your experiences during 911. We will have New York Cheesecake for dessert. Over 9:30 PM. Text John (719-351-7913) or Frances (541-219-2713) for the address and gate code.
