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FRIENDS MEETING
Of San Antonio

Statement on the Events of September 11, 2001

On September 16, 2001, Friends Meeting of San Antonio united with statements made jointly by FWCC, FGC, AFSC, PhYM and FUM; and separately by FCNL that were issued in response to the events of September 11, 2001. After additional consideration, Friends Meeting of San Antonio approved the following minute on September 23, 2001:

Friends Meeting of San Antonio shares in the sorrow and grief over the tragedy of September 11, 2001. We mourn, pray for, and hold in the Light those who died and those who suffered and continue to suffer from the tragedy of that day. We are horrified at the attacks in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania.

As Quakers we condemn all acts of violence. We are called to seek and honor the Light, that which is God, in all people. We feel compelled to provide a visible witness to peace and reject the idea that retaliatory and retributive violence will somehow make this horrific situation right. We pray that we ourselves and our leaders will be blessed with wisdom and inspiration during this difficult time.

We call on all people to discern how we can open the way to peace. We deeply believe that all of the world can "live in the virtue of that Light and Power that takes away the occasion of all wars." We also call on Friends and others to meet the hatred and animosity towards all people, and especially those of the Islamic faith and towards those of Middle Eastern or South Asian descent, with love, compassion, and action.

We believe that out of this violence, the opportunity to affirm and spread a message of peace, justice, love, and tolerance can occur. We commit ourselves as individuals and as Friends Meeting of San Antonio to work towards that goal.

Colby Glass, MLIS