09/11/2026
Statement for the 25th Anniversary of September 11, 2001 from Bishop Evelio Menjívar-Ayala
Friday, September 11, 2026
Twenty-five years ago, our nation was shaken by acts of terror that claimed thousands of innocent lives and left countless families and communities grieving. Today, the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston joins people throughout our country in remembering the victims, praying for those who mourn, and rejecting unequivocally every form of terrorism and violence. Every human life possesses immeasurable dignity before God.
This anniversary is also an opportunity to remember the unity that emerged amid tragedy. First responders, neighbors, volunteers, and people of every faith and background stood together in compassion and courage. We give thanks for all who worked in the days, months, and years afterward to rescue, recover, rebuild, and care for those whose lives had been changed forever.
With particular gratitude, we honor the men and women of our armed forces, past and present, who have served and sacrificed to protect our nation and seek greater security. We remember those who gave their lives, those who returned wounded in body or spirit, and the families who carried the burden of their service. We also express our deep appreciation to emergency personnel, construction and recovery workers, health-care professionals, chaplains, counselors, and countless ordinary citizens whose perseverance helped communities heal. We thank especially, those West Virginians who produced and delivered the vital materials used in the rebuilding efforts. Our steelworkers, miners, and laborers.
As we remember, we must not allow sorrow to become hatred. Healing requires truth, justice, compassion, and a renewed commitment to solidarity. May we resist division, reject prejudice, and work together for a society where every person is treated with dignity and where peace can take root.
On this solemn anniversary, I invite the faithful of West Virginia and all people of good will to pray for the victims and their families, for our military and first responders, and for all who continue to carry the wounds of that day. May Almighty God console those who mourn, strengthen those who serve, and guide our nation toward unity, healing, and peace.
+Most Rev. Evelio Menjívar, Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston
