Westport 2nd Selectman Avi Kaner was crossing 72nd Street earlier today. Look what he saw:
Meanwhile, Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn of Westport’s Conservative Synagogue had an even closer encounter with Pope Francis.
As he wrote his congregation earlier today:
This morning, I had the distinct honor of attending the Multi-Religious Gathering with Pope Francis at the 9/11 Memorial Museum. It was truly a day in my life that I will never forget.
Pope Francis, at the 9/11 Memorial. (Photo/Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn)
In a room filled with clergy and representatives of all religions, the positive energy was palpable and contagious. I sat next to an amazing woman from the Sikh community, and we were surrounded by fellow Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, and Jewish clergy. The symbolism of sitting together at Ground Zero–where so many lives were lost due to baseless hatred and terror-and instead joining hands in the spirit of peace, was nothing short of awe-inspiring. The humble presence of the Pope and his simple yet powerful plea for unity and reconciliation among all people left our hearts filled spirit and with hope.
As we approach Shabbat and look forward to celebrating Sukkot next week, let us all look forward to the day in which God spreads a sukkat shalom (shelter of peace) over the entire world.
Warm wishes for Shabbat Shalom and Hag Sameach.
Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn and Bishop James Massa, auxiliary bishop of Brooklyn.