TERRORISM IN AMERICA

"A FIRM RESOLVE" TO REJECT VIOLENCE

I pray that this inhuman act will awaken in the hearts of all the world's peoples a firm resolve to reject the ways of violence, to combat everything that sows hatred and division within the human family, and to work for the dawn of a new era of international cooperation inspired by the highest ideals of solidarity, justice and peace.

CHRISTIAN HOPE

Even if the forces of darkness appear to prevail, those who believe in God know that evil and death do not have the final say. Christian hope is based on this truth; at this time our prayerful trust draws strength from it.

"RENEWED HOPE"

I am confident that in this time of trial all Americans will find their religious faith a source of renewed hope and the impetus for an ever more determined resolve to reject the ways of hatred and violence.

"THE LIGHT OF THE GOSPEL"

To those affected by this immense tragedy I hold up the light of the Gospel and pray that by the prompting of the Holy Spirit they will be led to an ever closer union with the Lord Jesus Christ in the mystery of His cross and resurrection.

"CONQUER EVIL WITH GOOD"

To all I solemnly repeat the Gospel injunction not to be conquered by evil, but to conquer evil with good (Rom 12:21), to trust in the power of God's grace to transform human hearts and to work fearlessly to shape a future of justice, peace and security for the children of our world.

PRAY FOR WORLD LEADERS

I invite you to pray ... that Almighty God will guide the mind and hearts of world leaders so that the ways of justice and peace may prevail.

"COMFORT AND HOPE"

May the Blessed Virgin bring comfort and hope to those who suffer on account of the tragic attack of the terrorists that ... seriously harmed the beloved American people... May Mary welcome the dead, console the survivors, support those families that are particularly tried, help all to resist the temptation to hatred and violence, and to dedicate themselves to the service of justice and peace.

MARY AND YOUNG PEOPLE

May the Virgin Mary nourish in the hearts of all young persons ... high human and spiritual ideals and the necessary perseverance to achieve them. May she remind them of the primacy of eternal values, especially in these difficult moments, so that in their daily engagements and activities they may ever continue to be turned toward God and to His kingdom of solidarity and peace.

"STRENGTH AND COURAGE"

I ask God to grant the American people the strength and courage they need in this time of sorrow and trial.

(Sources: General Audiences 9/12/01 and 9/19/01, Meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Vatican 9/13/01, Angelus 9/16/01, Letter to Cardinal McCarrick of Washington, D.C., dated 9/15/01)