by Sharon Maeda *

Two weeks after the tragedy in New York, Pennsylvania and the Pentagon, people in the U.S. are returning to their daily routines, but life will never be the same. Increased presence of police and security officials at schools, shopping malls, airports and train stations are reminders of innocence lost.  

For the second consecutive weekend, memorials large and small, were held in public parks and sports stadiums as well as churches, mosques, synagogues and temples throughout the tri-state area. Local United Methodist bishops and clergy have given leadership in many of these events.  

Candles and home-made memorials continue to be created in parks, storefronts and yards around the region. Church and public prayer services begin the healing process. Donations to UMCOR and other disaster response organizations help fulfill our need to do something individually and collectively. And, words of prayer and support from partners around the world continue to console us.  

The mission for the United Methodist Church, our agencies and institutions is just beginning. For months and years to come, mission work will continue in key areas of:  

This special section of the General Board of Global Ministries web site will continue to serve as a contextual source and a resource for mission. Out of this tragedy of enormous proportions, let us continue to reflect our Christian teachings and Wesleyan tradition of being in mission.

* Sharon Maeda, Associate General Secretary, GBGM