LLUAHSC - Spring 2002 Newscope

Newscope

LLU&MC participate in National Day of Prayer and Remembrance following terrorist attacks

[SCOPE, Spring 2002]

(From left) John Scalise, deputy, San Bernardino County sheriff’s department; Gene Brooks, division chief, Loma Linda fire department; Marvin Ponder, MDiv; and Darold Retzer, MDiv, lead out in song.

Faculty, staff, and students of LLU&MC met Friday, September 14, in the University Church of Seventh-day Adventists to remember those touched by the tragic events of September 11.

Participating in a National Day of Prayer and Remembrance, institutions across the country paused to remember those affected by the events in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. Loma Linda University & Medical Center observed the day through a special noon service. Offices throughout the LLU campus were closed so staff could attend this time of prayer and reflection.

During the opening prayer, senior pastor of the University Church, Randy Roberts, MDiv, emphasized the need for America to turn to God.

“We have nowhere to turn but You,” he prayed. “We trust that You will guide us through this time of national disaster.”
B. Lyn Behrens, MBBS, president & CEO, LLUAHSC, reflected on the week’s events. “It is forever etched in our memories where we were and what we were doing when we heard of the tragedy,” she shared. “Our lives will be forever changed.”

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, chancellor, LLU, shared that the world must recognize the goodness in many cultures and religions.

“The University is redefining its international environment,” he said. “We have an opportunity and obligation to bring healing to all countries in the world. We must rally together.”

Those in attendance participated in a responsive reading, then were invited to share in a moment of silence. The program closed with the singing of “God Bless America,” during which representatives from local fire and police departments were honored.

Small groups formed after the service, providing the opportunity for personal prayer.

“May God bless all of you, and those you know and love,” Dr. Behrens said, “and those in particular who grieve.”

[SCOPE, Spring 2002]