Orthodox Christians Remember 9/11 with Memorial Service

East Meadow, NY – Members of Holy Trinity Orthodox Church here remember those who perished on September 11, 2001 by serving a memorial service on Saturday, September 11. “While our parish was not directly affected by the tragic events of 9/11, we as Orthodox Christians offered our prayers for the victims, that they will be granted eternal rest,” said Father Martin Kraus, rector of the parish.

The service was open to the public, and among those in attendance were local many residents and civic leaders including Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice and Legislator Norma Gonsalves.

Prayers during the service asked for rest and a blessed repose for those who died. Between the prayers, hymns were sung recounting biblical events from both the Old and New Testament where God protected His people in times of peril, in hopes of providing comfort for families of the victims.

“The events of 9/11 caused horrible pain and suffering for many people nine years ago,” said Father Martin, adding, “We remember today, as it is our responsibility as Christians to pray for the souls of those who lost their lives, and to provide solace for their families.”

The memorial service on Saturday was part of the parish’s festival and open house to welcome the community into the church. “We want to create an atmosphere where neighbors and others residents feel comfortable with the church and have an opportunity to experience life in an Orthodox Christian parish community,” said George Krzeminski, parish council president, “So often Orthodoxy is misperceived as limited to certain ethnic groups, but we want to share the news that our parish is open to all people.”

In addition to the annual 9/11 memorial service, members of the parish regularly participate in community activities to help those in need, including outreach efforts to provide food during weekly soup-kitchen deliveries in Manhattan, providing Christmas gifts to hospitalized children in local burn-units, mission trips to work at orphanages in Mexico and Guatemala, and holding a prayer service for pregnancy and infant loss.

Information about the Prayer Ministry

Complete schedule of events