Our Response is Love

On Sept. 11, my phone rang before the sun had risen. "Are you watching tv?" a voice asked. I thought to myself, why would I be watching television? I had gone to bed only hours before after finally making it home after a series of what I thought were unfortunate events: bad weather, delays, wrong terminals, a middle seat, and a change in arrival from LAX to Long Beach.

"That's your plane. That's your plane!" the voice exclaimed. I couldn't comprehend. "What's your flight number, Merrick?"—I finally recognized the voice of my colleague.

I grabbed the ticket: American Airlines, FLT: 11. Still not comprehending, all of us all watched in horror as the second plane hit. That series of annoyances actually saved my life. To this day, I never complain of the foibles of air travel.

Those of us old enough, know what the next days and weeks were like: pain and fear brought us together. We cared for each other unconditionally. We consoled our neighbors regardless of color or creed. We responded with love—just like St. Monica responds with love in this time of pandemic and political antagonism.

Thanks to your generosity, we continue to serve individuals and families not only with material support for food, utilities, rent, medical expenses—but also spiritually and emotionally. Our staff is connecting with parishioners each and every day and evening. In March, we projected a cash flow that would have seen our doors close by Aug. 31. Your faith in your fellow parishioners, in our Pastor and clergy, and in God's love has allowed us to stand united and be #StillStMonica.

On this day, when I am overwhelmingly thankful to have the opportunity to be with you all on this Earth, my prayer is that we continue to pour out love, strive for unity first, and lift up each other always. Let also also remember those who lost their lives that day and the loved ones left behind. Thank you for all the gifts you share with this parish community.