My apologies, this post was all set to go but my day got away on me, so please accept my apologies and enjoy the read.
On a side note- we visted Gander airpirt in June 2026- I stood in wonder at how some many people from so many places found their “home” there while the rest of the world stopped turning as Alan Jackson sings. I felt great pride being able to call Canada my home that day.
September 11 is a day that carries sadness for many people. It is a day when we remember the lives lost in the terrorist attacks of 2001, the families who were changed forever, and the many people who ran toward danger to help others.
As Canadians, we remember that day not only because of what happened in the United States, but also because of the way our two countries stood together in the days that followed.
On that September morning, the world watched as events unfolded in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania. We saw the bravery of first responders, the heartbreak of families, and the uncertainty of people trying to find their way home.
We also take time to remember what happened in Canada.
When American airspace closed, hundreds of planes were diverted to Canadian airports. Communities across our country opened their doors to thousands of stranded passengers. People who had never met before found themselves sharing meals, beds, conversations, and a little bit of comfort during a frightening time.
In places like Gander, Newfoundland, the response became a remarkable example of what it means to be a neighbour. Ordinary people did extraordinary things because someone needed help.
That is something we understand here in rural Manitoba.
We know what it means when a neighbour’s combine breaks down during harvest, when someone needs a hand with cattle, or when a winter storm leaves a family needing a little extra help. We know that sometimes the best thing we can do is simply show up.
We might feel like we do not have much to offer, but we offer what we can. A hot meal or a cup of coffee. A place to sit and rest. A helping hand. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares makes all the difference.
What does our faith call us to do?
This past Sunday we reflected that we are to be reminded that our faith is not meant to be lived only within the four walls of our churches. We are called to be people who care for one another, who stand with those who are hurting, and who work for peace and justice in our communities and our world.
Jesus reminds us in Matthew 22:39, “Love your neighbour as yourself.”
Being a neighbour is not always about having the right words. Sometimes it is about doing the next right thing.
September 11 is a day for remembering, but it is also a day for asking ourselves what kind of people we want to be.
The world can feel divided. There is conflict, fear, and suffering in many places. It can be easy to wonder what one person, one church, or one small community can do.
But the stories of September 11 remind us that kindness, courage and neighbors all matter.
We do not need to change the whole world in one day. We can begin by caring for the person in front of us.
As Canadians, we can be proud of the welcome offered to those who needed help in 2001. As Christians, we can continue to live out the call to love our neighbours.
May we contine to remember that we are never alone, we live in God’s world. Amen
