Commemorations of Sept. 11 attack slated around the state - Word&Way

Commemorations of Sept. 11 attack slated around the state

Churches and organizations will honor the anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers in New York and the Pentagon and the attempt on Washington in a variety of ways. Here are just a few of those services:

On 9/10:
Central Baptist Theological Seminary will host Miroslav Volf at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 10. The Henry B. Wright Professor of Systematic Theology at Yale University also is the founding director of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture. He will speak on "Allah: A Christian Response," which is also the title of his latest book.

On 9/11:
First Baptist Church, Columbia – A choir composed of singers from several Columbia area churches will present an anniversary concert, "To Hope," at 7 p.m. in the historic Missouri Theatre.

A $5 fee will be charged to attend the event that will feature 70 singers from 17 local congregations and a performance by the Columbia Handbell Ensemble.

First Baptist Church, Farmington – Pastor Bill Miller will emphasize the anniversary in morning worship, talking about the attack, the intervening years, and the spiritual response of Christians and the nation.

First Baptist Church, Higginsville – Pastor Greg Fine will focus on the anniversary in morning worship. Also hosting a joint community event, "Remem_bering 9/11: Embracing Hope," with several churches at 3 p.m. on 9/11.

Holmeswood Baptist, Kansas City – Will observe the anniversary at the beginning of worship at 9 a.m. with Michael W. Smith's music video, "There She Stands" and a moment of silent prayer to be followed by a prayer litany adapted from Barry Howard.

First Baptist Church, Jefferson City – Will participate in a shared worship service put together by the Protestant pastors of the city's downtown churches. Service is set for 5 p.m. on 9/11, with a reception and art display around the theme, "Remembrance," to follow.

Kirkwood Baptist Church – Will participant in a benefit concert, Showstoppers for Backstoppers, in the fellowship hall at Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Charles. The Mahnken Brass Quintet, featuring Susan Slaughter, and the Community Gospel Choir, under the direction of Cecelia Stearman, will perform.

Started in 1959, The Backstoppers Inc. provides support and financial assistance to families of fallen law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics and other emergency workers in the St. Louis area and to some state troopers in Missouri and Illinois.

First Baptist Church, Sedalia – Will recognize local law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians, paramedics and other staff in worship. A churchwide banquet will follow, with all first responders and their families as guests. The captains, chiefs and directors will speak.