REMEMBERING 9/11, by Ruth Green

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9/11 was a horrifying event. But 10 years on, we were uplifted as we remembered the terrible act of terror.

120 people came to ‘Remembering 9/11’ at St Peter’s on 11th September. It had been planned to hold this 10th anniversary event in the garden, but it was windy, and rain was forecast, so it was held in the church hall instead. And though we weren’t in the garden, we could all see and experience the remembrance around a peace pole. The atmosphere was really moving – the time of silence really was silent.

The multi-faith event had been organised by St Peter’s Community Outreach Group on behalf of Newington Churches Together. It was led by the Revd Jared Hay from Priestfield Church. Advertised as being ‘a chance to pause, reflect and express our hope for a peaceful world’, it brought together Ian Murray MP, Jim Eadie, MSP and Edinburgh Councillor Cameron Rose, all of whom reflected on the events with moving poems and speeches. David Goldberg represented the Jewish community and sang a Hebrew prayer. Imam Sajjad gave us thoughts on peace from the Muslim perspective, and Colin Symes from CCE meditated on the event from a Christian point of view.

Everyone was given an opportunity to tie a ribbon to symbolise hope and there was beautiful, reflective music from three clarsach players. The refreshments that were served afterwards included fair-trade biscuits, drinks, and also samosas and dips, very kindly provided by the Mosque Kitchen.