Pope Benedict made a brief but solemn visit to New York's Ground Zero on Sunday. Bloomberg:Pope Benedict XVI made a solemn 20- minute visit today to New York City's Ground Zero, the site of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, and prayed for God to bring "peace to our violent world.''
Benedict, who is on the first papal trip to the U.S. since the 2001 attacks, arrived at the World Trade Center site shortly after 9:30 a.m. local time, knelt before a pool of water and a candle placed on a gold-colored carpet, and prayed silently.
The pontiff then lit the candle and asked for God to heal those hurt in the attack and "all those who lost loved ones in this tragedy,'' while calling for "peace in the hearts of all men and women and peace among the nations of the Earth.''
"Turn your way of love to those whose hearts and minds are consumed with hatred,'' Benedict said, calling Ground Zero, where more than 2,700 people were killed, a "scene of incredible violence and pain.''
He then blessed the ground with holy water before speaking briefly with each of the guests -- about 20 emergency workers, survivors and relatives of victims selected by lottery as well as dignitaries including New York Governor David Paterson, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and New
Jersey Governor Jon Corzine.
Benedict brings dignity and a sense of the moment to Ground Zero. Big contrast between Pope Benedict and Jeremiah "G-d damn America" Wright. (photo credit: Chris Hondros/Getty Images)
