Saint Mary's students remembered those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001 with a candlelight vigil Sunday night on Alumnae Green.
The vigil, led by students and Campus Ministry, allowed the Saint Mary's community to come together as believers united in prayer for peace.
Suzanne Kondratenko, a ‘96 alumna, was one of the many lost on 9/11.
Senior Maria Tringali said bringing the community together to remember the tragedy was important.
"Sept. 11 affected so many Americans, and we need to take time to remember those individuals," Tringali said. "It is important that the community is able to come together in order to support those who have suffered the loss of their loved ones."
Kimberly Roland, a senior, said 9/11 changed both her life and her faith.
"As an American citizen active in the political process and interested in current events, I have always felt touched and impacted by the events of Sept. 11," she said. "As a young Catholic, I have grappled with questions of faith and justice since this day."
For senior Kerriann Dooley, the events of Sept. 11 hit close to home.
"I took the time to remember 9/11 tonight because 12 people from my town lost their lives that day, including the father of a friend of my sister," she said. "People waited so long for their family members to come home when they were gone, and we should never forget them or those who have been the victims of terror since that day."
Students received a candle at Regina Hall, then formed a circle with the lit candles on Alumnae Green.
The vigil began with the song "Christ, Be Our Light."
Students were then given the opportunity to share prayer intentions.
The vigil culminated with a sign of peace and the distinguishing of the candles that lit the night.
Roland said focusing on those who lost loved ones was a significant part of the night.
"It is important to not only remember this day that shall live in infamy, but also to pray for the families and victims, and for increased peace in our world," Roland said.
