Print Issue: September 19, 2002

Jonesboro Parish Spends Day In Prayer

By Yvone Daly, Special To The Bulletin

JONESBORO - A day of prayer, unity and patriotism was celebrated by members of St. Philip Benizi Church, Sept. 11 to commemorate the anniversary of the tragic events of that day, just one year ago. Joining other churches throughout the United States, hundreds of parishioners flocked to St. Philip's throughout the day to participate in morning and evening Masses and to offer their prayers before the Blessed Sacrament as eucharistic adoration took place from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. in the church.

Many people came to St. Philip Benizi Church, Jonesboro, throughout the day, not only for the noontime prayer service, but also for eucharistic adoration as well as morning and evening Masses.

A special prayer service was celebrated at noon, specifically dedicated to the thousands who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks, to their families, to the survivors, to the hundreds of rescue workers and volunteers involved in the clean-up efforts, and to peace in our world. Representatives from all of the city and county rescue departments were invited to attend the service, including members of the police and fire departments, EMTs and 911 rescue teams.

Followed by the Rev. Mr. Peter Swan Sr., who presided at the prayer service, the Knights of Columbus Father Bliemel, Assembly 1962 Honor Guard led the procession into the church, carrying the flag of the United States and the Vatican Flag. Other members carried and placed on display a folded flag in honor of all those who lost their lives and a book that listed the names of all the deceased. The folded flag, in the shape of a tri-cornered hat, symbolizes the hats worn by Colonial soldiers during the Revolutionary War.