[This bidding prayer was originally written for use in services the week following 9/11/1, and has been adapted for use on anniversaries. "L" = Leader; "C" = Congregation]

L Let us pray for those who were killed by terrorists in the events of September 11, 2001.

L Lord, many have been killed, and all of us have suffered loss. God of mercy,

L Let us pray for those whose bodies are still missing.

L Lord, many remain missing, and all of us have been diminished. God of mercy,

L Let us pray for those who have been injured by the violence of terrorism.

L Lord, many have been injured, and all of us have been hurt. God of mercy,

L Let us pray for those who have given their lives for others.

L Lord, many have given their lives, and all of us want to give something. God of mercy,

L Let us pray for those who continue to work to serve the victims of these tragedies.

L Lord, many work to serve, and all of us want to help. God of mercy,

L Let us pray for justice in a world of violence.

L Lord, many seek justice, and all of us need to find meaning. God of mercy,

L Let us pray for our nation as it has been under attack.

L Lord, it is our nation, and we feel vulnerable. God of mercy,

L Let us pray for forgiveness in a time of hate.

L Lord, some of us cannot forgive, and all of us need to be forgiven. God of mercy,

L Let us pray for those who find themselves in despair.

L Lord, many of us have lost faith, and all of us need hope. God of mercy,

L Let us pray for those who work to preserve peace in the midst of unrest.

L Lord, many work for peace, and all of us need love. God of mercy,

C Hear our prayer.

[The prayers may be continued / closed as the leader sees fit within the particular worship context. I myself have conlcuded with the prayer attributed to "St Francis" ("Lord make me an instrument of your peace . . . "), believing it to be appropriate for this context and without sectarian bias.]