Saint Michael the Archangel Regional School, Clayton, on Sept. 9 held a family candlelight prayer service to pray for a new year and honor those who have fallen victim to the September 11th attacks.
The ceremony included the dedication of a “Survivor Tree” that was donated by the Columbian Squires 4688.
The Callery pear tree became known as the “Survivor Tree” after enduring the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center. The tree was discovered at Ground Zero severely damaged. It was then removed, replanted and cared for by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation.
After the tree recovered, it was returned to the memorial in 2010.
Throughout the vigil, the Holy Family Icon with an apostolic blessing was on display. The icon has been on a pilgrimage from Rome through Knights of Columbus. The Glenn P. Williams Circle Squires were distributing prayers cards to all those who attended.
“We are honored to have the tree donated by the young men of our school as a constant reminder of our country’s resilience in a time of tragedy” says Williams, District Deputy and Chief Counselor of the Knights of Columbus.