Holy Rood To Mark 25 Years Since 9/11

Long Islanders will gather at the Cemetery of the Holy Rood on Sept. 11 for a special Mass marking the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that claimed nearly 3,000 lives and continue to affect first responders and their families.

Catholic Cemeteries of Long Island will host the outdoor Remembrance Mass at the cemetery’s September 11th Memorial beginning at 1 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to arrive by 12:30 p.m.

The cemetery recently added 50 names to its 9/11 memorial, including five people who died on Sept. 11, 2001, and 45 who later died from 9/11-related illnesses. “For many families and first responders, the effects of 9/11 impact their lives every day,” CCLI CEO Richard Bie said. “This Mass gives them an opportunity to come together with others to collectively grieve, reflect and pray.”

The service will be led by Most Rev. Bishop Robert Coyle of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, a U.S. Navy veteran and Long Island resident.

The Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree Honor Guard will lead the procession to the memorial. The St. Anthony’s High School Celtic Friars Pipe Band will participate in the procession and perform, while the Chaminade High School Choir will sing hymns during the service. More than 400 people and VIPs are expected to attend. For those unable to attend, CCLI will livestream the Mass on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram beginning at 12:45 p.m.

“We know there are family members that live in other parts of the country or are otherwise unable to attend the Mass in person, so it was important for us to offer live streaming,” Bie said.

Seating will be limited, and elderly attendees or those requiring assistance are encouraged to arrive early. In the event of rain, the Mass will be moved to the cemetery chapel.

Additional information is available at CCLongIsland.org.