Abp. Daniel Issues Pastoral Letter on 25th Anniversary of 9/11

CHICAGO — Abp. Daniel of the Orthodox Church in America's Diocese of Chicago and the Midwest called on the clergy, monastics, and faithful of the diocese to remember the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and those whose lives were permanently changed by the tragedy. In an archpastoral letter marking the 25th anniversary, he reflected on the continuing grief caused by the attacks.

Abp. Daniel described September 11 as one of the darkest days in the nation’s history, when violence suddenly shattered ordinary lives and thousands of innocent people were killed. He noted that parents, children, spouses, friends, neighbors, and colleagues were among those taken, while countless survivors continued to bear the sorrow of losing loved ones.

The Archbishop also emphasized that the darkness of that day did not overcome the light of Christ. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it” (John 1:5), he wrote, pointing to the courage of first responders, strangers who helped one another, and communities that gathered to pray, mourn, serve, and rebuild.

On the anniversary, Abp. Daniel urged the faithful to remember those who died and those who continue to grieve, while honoring those who served and sacrificed. He called Christians to become bearers of Christ’s “unconquered light” by choosing mercy over hatred, unity over division, service over indifference, and hope over fear.

The Archbishop concluded by praying that God would comfort those who continue to mourn and grant peace to the nation and the world. He said the memory of September 11 should call people to live with greater faith, compassion, courage, and love, signing the letter, “With love in Christ the Giver of Light.”

Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Daniel presided at the Transfiguration pilgrimage in Ellwood City.