O Lord, God-Hero, Father forever, Prince of peace, in many times and places you have shown us that the true way to Life and the glory of your presence is through mercy, compassion, love and peace. Yet, in these days our human society is marked by injustice and prejudice, by brutal and subtle oppression and inequalities, by fiery hatred and unspeakable acts of terror.

Grant repose, O Lord, to those whose lives have been ended tragically and quickly by inhuman violence and indiscriminate attacks. Comfort those injured in any way, either physically or spiritually, by these infamous assaults done to strike terror into our hearts.

Grant us and the nations of the world repentance for the injustices that have been perpetrated through human greed and ambition, and give us the wisdom and the strength to work for the fullness of your kingdom of righteousness and holiness.

Grant that all peoples may at least find that your way of peace, humility and love for each other is the only true path to a reasonable society established on respect for one another, justice for all and the infinite value of every human life, for you are the Creator and Lover of all.

Therefore, we beg of you this day as we remember the terror of September 11, that all wars and acts of violence be brought to an end and that all peoples begin to work together for a peaceful and just world. Give us the gift of your Spirit to accomplish this.

For you are the God of peace and mercy and compassion, and we give glory to you, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and ever and forever.

(thanks to Archpriest David Petras)