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Reflecting and Remembering

Local funeral homes to mark 25th anniversary of 9/11 with community service

Sep 11, 2026 | 6:05 AM

On the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Gray’s Funeral Chapel and River Park Funeral Home are inviting the community to gather for a service of remembrance, gratitude and reflection.

The idea for the event came from a casual funeral attendant, who is also a first responder. In conversation with funeral home manager Lisa Bos-Atchison, she suggested marking the significant anniversary with an event for the community.

Bos-Atchison said the 25-year milestone made this year an important time to bring people together.

“Twenty-five years is a significant amount of time,” Bos-Atchison said. “That act of being able to come together to remember, I think it’s more important now than ever.”

The service is also intended to recognize the first responders and service personnel who work to protect and support their communities.

The event will be led in part by Reverend Nora Vedress, who works with Prince Albert Police Service as a chaplain, among her other community involvements. Elder Liz Settee will also participate, providing a blessing intended to set the event in a good way.

Police and fire services have been invited to attend, and the service will include a moment of silence and a bagpiper. Following the formal portion, attendees will have an opportunity to gather and reflect.

Bos-Atchison said organizers wanted the event to be inclusive and open to people from across the community, regardless of cultural background.

“We wanted to make sure that we were being inclusive and recognizing everyone that is, supports our community in those ways.”

The event is not intended to be lengthy or elaborate. Instead, organizers hope it provides a place for people to pause and remember the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001, while expressing gratitude for those who continue to put their lives on the line.

The 25th anniversary also coincides with Canada’s National Day of Service, adding another connection to the event’s focus on service and community.

Bos-Atchison said there is no specific attendance goal for the gathering. Whether the chapel is full or only a handful of people attend, she said the important thing is providing an opportunity for those who find meaning in remembrance to come together.

She also encouraged people who cannot attend to mark the anniversary in their own way.

“Maybe take a moment of silence to reflect, to remember. When you come across those in any sort of service or first responding role, say thanks.”

The event’s broader theme is one of peace, hope and unity, with organizers hoping the anniversary can serve as an opportunity for the community to come together.

The service begins at 11 at Gray’s Funeral Chapel.

susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com