Memorial services were held Friday across the Tri-Campuses to commemorate those affected by Tuesday's terrorism. At left, staff, school groups and visitors gathered at the Institute of Texan Cultures. At right, ITC staff members Sylvia Campos and Sylvia Reyes light candles to honor those lost or missing.
UTSA Tri-Campuses honor those lost to terrorism
(Sept. 14, 2001)--Groups across the Tri-Campuses congregated today at noon to honor and pray for those affected by Tuesday’s terrorism.
At the 1604 Campus more than 300 students and staff members attended an inter-faith ceremony in the University Center Retama Room. The service included prayers and readings from the Muslim, Jewish and Christian faith traditions, moments of sharing comments and moments of silence. The hour-long ceremony ended with the singing of "God Bless America."
A prayer service at the flag poles on the Downtown Campus included a presentation of the U.S. colors by a military veteran, who is curator of the Latino Heritage Week veteran’s display. The crowd of more than 150 held hands, listened to a radio broadcast of President Bush’s speech and prayed. One participant attempted to lead the group in singing "God Bless America," but the emotion of the moment prevented many from participating. Olga Guerrero, university police, closed the service by leading the singing of "Amazing Grace."
The staff of the Institute of Texan Cultures gathered on the veranda near the Mexican patio for a memorial service and a moment of silence. School groups, docents, volunteers and visitors joined them. Dr. Rex Ball, ITC executive director, opened the ceremony with words to honor those lost or missing.
Mary Grace Ketner, ITC storyteller and educational specialist, provided a brief memorial and invited members of the crowd to share stories of concern for those who waited or are still waiting to hear about loved ones and friends. Several people, including two schoolchildren, spoke about their connections to the events and then lit candles for their relatives or friends. After a moment of silence was observed, guests were invited to write on a memory board the names of relatives or friends affected by the acts of terrorism.
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