The commemoration of 9/11 at St. Theresa Catholic School in Phoenix was a heartrending event attended by parents and military guests.

A slight breeze caught the "prayers for peace" paper stars hanging from the outdoor ramada's ceiling that were inscribed with student and staff prayers.

The choral reflections and opening prayers for Patriot Day was lead by Dee Schaff's seventh-grade class, which also included a color guard from the Air National Guard and the releasing of doves.

A special invitation was given to parents of school children who actively serve in the military, and civil service members from the police and fire departments. The emotional tribute paid homage to all lives lost eight years ago.

"This is so beautiful and so powerful," said Army Maj. Elisabeth Jimenez, whose two sons attend the school. "It's wonderful that we can be together, share our memories and pray."
Voices of 600 children lead in singing, "God Bless America," but the most poignant moment came when the color guard presented the Arizona State Flag to principal Sr. Patricia Gehling, and the American Flag to pastor Fr. Charles G. Kieffer, VF. "This day is to remember the events of 9/11 with reverence, and to pray a prayer for peace and honor those that have died," Schaff said.

The prayer banners will be sent to soldiers in the Middle East as a gift for their service.

Special thanks to Tracey Theisen for taking the pictures, Sean Foudy for putting the slide show together and Gina Keating for writing the article.