On the anniversary of a day when unimaginable tragedy struck America, dozens of local citizens and ministers gathered at the Butler County Courthouse to remember and to pray.

“Cry Out for America” was held at noon on Thursday, September 11 in conjunction with similar prayer times in courthouses across the nation.

The Stars and Stripes fluttered in the brisk and welcome breeze up and down Commerce Street as Evangelist Carolyn Griffin of Warrior Ministries, Father Fred Lindstrom of Saint Thomas Episcopal Church, Chief Mike Phillips of the Greenville Fire Department, Pastor Lois Robinson of Covenant Warriors, Chad McGriff and Fay Cummings led those gathered on the courthouse steps in prayer for the community, state, nation and the world.

“May we never forget what happened on September 11, 2001,” said Butler County Revenue Commissioner Belle Peavy, who welcomed all those congregated on the courthouse steps.

Griffin explained there was no formal program for the event.

“Today we simply recognize we need to repent and turn back to prayer…we need a healing in our land,” Griffin said.

Lindstrom asked for guidance for the President and all in authority, “for wisdom and strength to do Your will.”

“We remember those who died on September 11 and those who mourned them…touch their hearts,” he added.

Phillips also prayed for the families left behind by 9-11, and gave thanks “for the hope and assurance given by God’s son, Jesus Christ.”

Cummings expressed thanks for God’s people coming together to pray and “for God’s love flowing through the community,” while Robinson sought “ a restoration…more unity in our cities, communities, state and nation.”

McGriff closed the event with a personalized form of the Lord’s Prayer, after which the assembly softly sang along to “God Bless the U.S.A.”