Padua’s Chaplain Friar Johnpaul Cafiero, a native New Yorker, shared the story of his connection to September 11th terrorist attacks with faculty and staff on September 11, 2023. He served as an NYC police officer before becoming a Franciscan priest. He lost relatives, friends and former colleagues on September 11, 2001. Two weeks prior, he was on top of the World Trade Center with his dad, who worked there, having lunch. In the weeks that followed the attacks, he helped counsel first responders who were struggling with survivor’s guilt.
Padua had two moments of silence during school to mark the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center collapsing 22 years ago.
We pray for our country’s freedom and faith. Guide us on a path of healing and hope.