12 September 2001

TO: Partner Churches in North America
Related Missionary Personnel in Taiwan

FROM: Rev. William J. K. Lo
The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan

Dear Friends

Like the rest of the world, since yesterday, we are trying to digest the news of the devastating terrorist attacks in the USA which have dominated our TV monitors and impacted our hearts - it is beyond comprehension. A tragedy of such magnitude - horrific for the victims, their families and communities directly involved - can not but also pierce the hearts of your entire nation and the entire world.

On behalf of the officers and constituent members of the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan we convey our deep sorrow and express our sympathy to the victims, their families, to your people, the leaders of your government, your congregations and not forgetting the least among you, the children of your land.

For members of the ecumenical family this horror brings into sharp focus the WCC theme and its commitment for 2001-2010 the Decade to Overcome Violence. Let this be a challenge for us to dedicate ourselves with renewed enthusiasm to strive for peace and justice by none violent means in our respective regions.

As an expression of our sympathy, compassion and solidarity the PCT has decided to provide immediately for our Partner churches, PC(USA), RCA and UCC/Disciples of Christ, the amount of US$3,000. to each church. Kindly let us know as soon as possible the bank details where the donations should be deposited for your respective denominational relief fund.

This morning colleagues in the PCT General Assembly Office prayed for you - please be assured the prayers of your sisters and brothers in Taiwan will continue.

In the aftermath of the tragedies in New York and Washington and Pennsylvania we bring before the Sovereign God:

the victims, those who grieve for their loved ones and for the people of your county

- Lord, embrace them in your arms and comfort them

the teams involved in the rescue efforts and emergency services

- Lord, give them courage and stamina in these immediate crucial hours

the children of your communities

- Lord, take away their fears that they may know security in your hands

the congregations of each of your denominations

- Lord, give them boldness to share the love and hope of Christ so those in pain may know healing and wholeness

the terrorist organizations

- Lord, may they be convicted by your grace and be accountable for their actions before God and international law

the President and leaders of your nation

- Lord, grant them your wisdom and strength to make responsible decisions

the leaders of all nations

- Lord, that they earnestly seek peaceful resolutions that will put and an end to such needless, inhumane acts of senseless terror

Lord in Your Mercy, hear our prayers, Amen