Rome, September 14, 2001

Dear Robert, John, Finian, John, Tom, Fred and Larry,
Dear Brothers in Saint Francis,

On this day of mourning in which the whole world participates we want you to know that we are thinking of you and praying for you. In the unbelievable atrocities of last Tuesday morning a force of evil has been let loose which is capable of destroying the earth. We pray that those responsible may swiftly be brought to justice and their inhuman designs thwarted. To you and to all Americans as you come to terms with the trauma of these days go our sympathy, our admiration and our affection.

The news reached us as we held our annual meeting with the General Visitors. It was early afternoon in Rome, and we immediately suspended our sessions for the rest of the day. On Wednesday evening we held a prayer service of grieving and supplication. Readings in many languages from the Book of Lamentations gave voice to the universal sense of desolation. We prayed for you and for America.

The death in the fulfillment of duty of our brother, Mychal Judge, is especially poignant. We offer heartfelt sympathy to John Felice, Peter Brophy, the friars at 31st Street, New York, and the Holy Name Province; please convey our condolences to Mychal's family. The sacrifice of so many fire-fighters and their chaplain is a testimony to selflessness and a glimmer of light in the surrounding darkness.

To all of you, brothers, who may have lost friends and relatives, our sympathy. On the brothers who live close to the afflicted areas in New York and Washington, especially the friars of Immaculate Conception and Holy Name Provinces, we invoke the Lord's protection and comfort. Already the ability of Americans to cope with adversity and not succumb is becoming evident. Never have the nations been so united; may the shared determination to rid the world of terrorism lead to greater peace on earth and justice for the marginalized and the poor.

America! America! God shed his grace on thee,
and crown thy good with brotherhood
from sea to shining sea.

Deepest sympathy from your brothers in Rome
Br. Giacomo and General Definitory

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