CHEPACHET — The faithful filled St. Eugene’s Church in Chepachet on Sunday, Sept. 17, at the 10:15 a.m. Mass, to honor the lives of those lost on the 16th anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks, and to pray for all those who continue to serve and protect.
Thirteen local police and fire departments, military, first responders and their families took part in the anniversary Mass, which is celebrated at the parish each year on the Sunday following 9/11. Local mayors and politicians were also present to offer their support for those that continue to serve.
On this solemn occasion, Father TJ Varghese expressed his sincere gratitude for all of those in attendance and took time to recognize those who made the ultimate sacrifice. He also thanked the brave men and women who continue to protect our state, country and world.
“They are Rhode Island’s finest, bravest, who rush to rescue us. We honor those who wear the uniform of this nation, our hometown heroes who inspire us every day.”
In times of trial, Father Varghese shared that it is important to seek God and come together as a people of faith.
“He gives us the strength to do what is right no matter what the cost,” he said. “America is proud to be one nation under God. We come together to remember the past for we promise to never forget. The cross of our risen Lord seemed so powerful and so final, we are reminded that death did not have the last word.”
The 9/11 memorial service is an important tradition at St. Eugene, explained Richard A. Waterman, Chief of the Harmony, Rhode Island Fire Department.
“This is a great service that represents the brotherhood of the service, police and all our first responders who came in after 9/11 and put that city back together,” he said. “We celebrate and recognize all that they sacrificed.”
Following the Mass, a special flag raising ceremony took place on the front lawn of the church to honor those who gave their lives saving others 16 years ago. Ralph Palmieri, the guest of honor, a 94-year-old World War II veteran and parishioner of St. Eugene Church, helped to raise the flag as taps played.
Many parishioners and men and women in uniform approached Palmieri, thanking the WWII Veteran for his years of service. Lieutenant Robert Loomis stood beside Palmieri offering his support.
“The day has been very moving,” he said. “Although it was 16 years ago we still come together for our fellow brothers and sisters.”
Representative Robert B. Lancia, (R-Cranston), a former Navy chaplain and disabled veteran, attended the Mass with his wife Maryann. They recalled visiting Ground Zero and witnessing the now famous World Trade Center steel cross.
“I still get goosebumps,” said Maryann.
“It is important to come to an event like this to continue to remember and honor those lives,” said Rep. Lancia. “We were given such a beautiful day today. God had a hand in this event.”
