More than 2,700 people were killed in the terrorist strike on 9-11. And today, the Pope got to see what’s been called ground zero up close and personal. Joining the pope at the site were survivors of the attacks and relatives of those who died, as well New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Cardinal Edward Egan. The Holy Father lit a memorial candle, prayed, and blessed the site with holy water.
Benedict was driven in the popemobile part of the way down a ramp now used mostly by construction trucks to a spot by the north tower’s footprint. He got out, walked the final steps and knelt in silent prayer for a few moments as many in the world watched vis TV satellite.
After praying, the pope greeted the 9/11 survivors and their relatives.
Benedict had invited 24 people with ties to ground zero to join him: survivors, relatives of victims and four rescue workers. His prayers for peace, hope and healing, included for those who became ill after breathing toxic air in the ruins.
The site where the World Trade Center was destroyed is normally filled with hundreds of workers building a 102-story skyscraper, a memorial and transit hub. It bears little resemblance to the debris-filled pit where crews toiled to remove twisted steel and victims’ remains.
Later today, Pope Benedict XVI will celebrate Mass at Yankee Stadium, before returning to Rome. The six day whirlwind trip covered everything from priest scandals, terrorists conversations with Gerge Bush, a visit to the United Nations, and the 9-11 memorial.
The Papa came, he saw, and now he returns home.
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