Letter from Members of Congress

The following letter was given to President David Benke by Congressman Gary Ackerman at a meeting at Saint Peter Lutheran Church, Brooklyn, N.Y. Dr. Gerald Kieschnick was also at that meeting to speak to the members of Benke's congregation and of the Atlantic District.

Congress of the United States
Washington, DC 20515

July 11, 2002

Reverend Dr. David Benke, and
Members of the Board of Directors,
Atlantic District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
171 White Plains Road
Bronxville, New York, 10708

Dear Gentlemen:

We write to express our greatest appreciation of Dr. David Benke for his participation in the September 23rd civic program at Yankee Stadium held in remembrance of all those who perished in the horrific events of September 11th.

This public program was a wonderful display of the healing power that charity and understanding can bring to those suffering from grief, loss and trauma. His words of comfort, hope and encouragement offered to all of the individuals present as well as watching and listening from their homes across the nation illustrated the tremendous strength of the American people when united against hate.

The extraordinary civic occasion at Yankee Stadium offered the necessary opportunity for the American people to publicly express their support for the families of the victims of September 11th as well as the emergency, fire and police workers who were called to action on that tragic day. It was a momentous occasion where thousands of Americans publicly began the healing process in the company of our communities' political, civic and religious leaders.

The participation of representatives from all parties and all walks of faith illustrated the true strength of our nation in our ability to come together, united as Americans, in the wake of our country's greatest disaster. Standing on state shoulder to shoulder with his fellow Americans he bravely offered assurance and consolation in words of comfort for us.

We would like to offer our personal thanks for his strength and participation in what has universally been considered an overwhelmingly positive patriotic gathering in the wake of September 11th. Please know that in these difficult days, Dr. Benke has our continued support and admiration as he works to fulfill the good intentions of his vocation and his elected position by serving the needs of the members of his parish, his district, and our communities.

Sincerely,

SIGNERS

Representative Charles Stenholm
Representative Norman Dicks
Representative Sherrod Brown
Representative Gary Ackerman
Representative Lois Capps
Representative Colin Peterson
Representative Darlene Hooley
Representative Ron Kind
Representative Martin Sabo
Representative Thomas Petri
Representative Michael Oxley

Posted July 22, 2002