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Pope Prays at Ground Zero

Benedict XVI blesses 9/11 victims and their families

By Caroline Zimmerman,  Newser User

Posted Apr 20, 2008 11:09 AM CDT

(Newser) – Pope Benedict XVI got on his knees at Ground Zero today to bless the site where 2,600 people died and pray for the victims of the 9/11 attacks and their grieving families. "Turn to your way of love those whose hearts and minds are consumed with hatred," he said, in offering a prayer for peace. He then met with survivors and victims' families, as well as local leaders, including Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

The pope spoke individually with representatives of 16 families out of an applicant pool of 1,100, with Cardinal Egan introducing each one for the papal tete a tete, the New York Times reports. "Being in front of the holy father hits me deep down inside," said one firefighter who survived a broken back suffered in the attack. 

Pope Benedict XVI takes part in a candle lighting at ground zero, site of the attacks of the World Trade Center, as family members of victims of the attacks look on.
Pope Benedict XVI takes part in a candle lighting at ground zero, site of the attacks of the World Trade Center, as family members of victims of the attacks look on.   (Associated Press)
Pope Benedict XVI rides in the popemobile as he leaves the World Trade Center site on Sunday, April 20, 2008 in New York.
Pope Benedict XVI rides in the popemobile as he leaves the World Trade Center site on Sunday, April 20, 2008 in New York.   (Associated Press)
John McLoughlin is one of two dozen Sept. 11 family members, survivors and rescue workers  returning to ground zero on Sunday April 20, 2008, with Pope Benedict XVI.
John McLoughlin is one of two dozen Sept. 11 family members, survivors and rescue workers returning to ground zero on Sunday April 20, 2008, with Pope Benedict XVI.   (Associated Press)
Pope Benedict XVI prays at the site of the World Trade Center in New York, Sunday, April 20, 2008.
Pope Benedict XVI prays at the site of the World Trade Center in New York, Sunday, April 20, 2008.   (Associated Press)
Pope Benedict XVI rides in the popemobile, lower left, as he leaves the World Trade Center site on Sunday, April 20, 2008 in New York.
Pope Benedict XVI rides in the popemobile, lower left, as he leaves the World Trade Center site on Sunday, April 20, 2008 in New York.   (Associated Press)
Pope Benedict XVI meets family members of victims of the World Trade Center attacks at ground zero in New York Sunday, April 20, 2008.
Pope Benedict XVI meets family members of victims of the World Trade Center attacks at ground zero in New York Sunday, April 20, 2008.   (Associated Press)
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