25th 9/11 Anniversary Mass
Catholic Leaders Mark 25th 9/11 Anniversary With Calls for Unity and Hope
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Key Points
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Pope John Paul II responded immediately after learning of the attacks by withdrawing to pray in the Apostolic Palace’s private chapel and sending a condolence telegram to President George W. Bush describing the attacks as an “unspeakable horror” and an “inhuman” act.
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At the first General Audience after the attacks, John Paul II asked that there be no applause and that the faithful remain in solemn silence, calling Sept. 11 “a terrible affront to human dignity” and arguing that the response should be unity and dialogue rather than revenge.
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Franciscan Father Brian Jordan recalled arriving at Ground Zero with holy water, a mask and gloves supplied by a police captain, where he blessed bodies and body parts; he later celebrated his first Mass at the site on Sept. 16.
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The Washington commemorative Mass will be celebrated and preached by Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, at 5:15 p.m. ET on Sept. 11, 2026, in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception’s Crypt Church, with a livestream available through the shrine.
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Bishop Edward Malesic’s reflection specifically highlights first responders who continue to suffer physical and emotional wounds and urges Catholics to remember a younger generation that knows the attacks only through the accounts of others.
Catholic leaders across the United States are marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks with Masses, prayers, and calls for unity and healing. Nearly 3,000 people died in the attacks, along with countless first responders and service members who served in the aftermath. Catholic Review reported that Archbishop William E. Lori led a midday Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on the anniversary, honoring those lost and continuing Pope John Paul II's vision of dialogue over revenge.
Church leaders are urging Americans to support survivors and grieving families while carrying forward values of charity, human dignity, and hope. The Catholic Herald reported that bishops including Archbishop Ronald Hicks of New York and Bishop Michael Burbidge of Arlington, Virginia each offered messages of healing and peace, emphasizing that evil and death should not have the final word.
Pope John Paul II Called for Unity, Not Revenge
When Pope John Paul II learned of the attacks, he withdrew to his private chapel in the Apostolic Palace to pray. He sent a telegram to President George W. Bush calling the attacks an "unspeakable horror" and "inhuman." At his first public audience after September 11, John Paul II asked for no applause and requested that the faithful remain in solemn silence, calling the day "a terrible affront to human dignity." He argued strongly that the response should be unity and dialogue, not revenge or retaliation.
Clergy Ministered to the Dying at Ground Zero
Franciscan Father Brian Jordan arrived at Ground Zero with holy water, a mask, and gloves supplied by a police captain. He blessed bodies and body parts as he ministered to the dying and deceased. On September 16, just five days after the attacks, Father Jordan celebrated his first Mass at the site itself, offering pastoral care to victims' families and first responders. Catholic World Report highlighted how heroic faith inspired conversion and hope among survivors and rescuers during those dark days.
Washington Basilica Hosts Major Commemorative Mass
A commemorative Mass will be celebrated at Washington's Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on September 11, 2026. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, will celebrate and preach the Mass at 5:15 p.m. ET in the Basilica's Crypt Church. The liturgy will remember those who died in the attacks and renew commitments to justice and peace. A livestream will be available for those unable to attend in person.
First Responders Continue Suffering Long After the Attacks
Bishop Edward Malesic's reflection on the 25th anniversary specifically highlights first responders who continue to suffer physical and emotional wounds decades after September 11. The Tablet reported that Archbishop Ronald A. Hicks emphasized the need for active healing and unity in his homily at St. Patrick's Cathedral. Church leaders urge Catholics to remember younger generations who know the attacks only through the accounts of others, ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten.
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