Tomorrow, September 11, 2026, we mark 25 years since the tragic terrorist attacks that claimed so many lives and changed our country forever.

Those of us who were old enough to remember that day can vividly recall where we were when the news broke. I remember celebrating daily Mass and gathering afterward to honor a parishioner celebrating her 94th birthday. The joyful celebration was quickly overshadowed by the horrific news that we now recognize all too well as one of the darkest days in our nation’s history.

In the hours that followed, I distinctly remember St. Philip Neri Church in Empire, Michigan, overflowing with members of our community as I led a Mass for peace. People arrived early and stayed after the final blessing, praying passionately for peace.

Brothers and Sisters, this commemoration reminds us to kneel in prayer as advocates for peace, asking that Jesus go forth into our world and unleash a newfound peace. I invite you to join me in prayer that peace may prevail in our hearts, our homes, our nation, and throughout the world.

Archbishop Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City, president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, has issued a statement on behalf of the Conference to mark this solemn anniversary.

I encourage you to share it in your parishes as you see fit.