“Children of God Together,” Wednesday night’s peace march from St. Mark’s to St. James cathedrals, was as solemn, united, and respectful as any other of the many terror-attack memorials this past week. What made it different was its purpose. It brought thousands together, not just to remember the victims of the horror but also to try and prevent future horrors with future victims, here and/or overseas.

Catholics, Protestants, Jews, Moslems, Unitarians, a few Buddhists and Baha’is, and assorted others slowly trod the two miles between Seattle’s two most spectacular churches, holding candles and singing spirituals; while supportive bystanders all along Broadway and Madison lifted their arms or held up banners.

Their message is best expressed in this quote from one of the prayers recited by the overflow throng at St. Mark’s:

“Merciful God, we pray for our country, our city, and for Americans everywhere:

“That we may help one another heal from hurt and anger; that we may turn ot one another in love and compasison, rather than fear and misunderstanding; that we may not give in to a spirit of division and the desire to blame and to vilify; for unity and mutual love among peoples of all faith traditions; for strength and wisdom in our witness and service; that you will sustain us now and lead us through whatever lies ahead.”

For further thoughts on this topic, see ‘A religious response to terrorism.’