A Callery pear tree, known as a 'Survivor Tree,' was donated to the school
CLAYTON -- On Sept. 9, St. Michael the Archangel Regional School (SMRS) kicked off the new school year with a family candlelight prayer service. Some SMRS families, along with the Columbian Squires 4688 and St. John Neumann Council of Knights of Columbus 7032 gathered at dusk to pray for a productive, peaceful, healthy and joyful scholastic year.
During this prayer service they also honored those who have fallen victim to the Sept. 11 attacks by dedicating a "Survivor Tree" that's was donated by the Columbian Squires 4688.
Clayton's St. Michael the Archangel Regional School held a candlelight vigil to honor the victims of 9/11. Pictured, from left, JP Kryzwicki, Joe Rosa, Nick Renz, and Rosa Renz. The Callery pear tree became known as the "Survivor Tree" after enduring the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks at the World Trade Center. The tree was discovered at Ground Zero severely damaged. It was then removed, replanted and cared for by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. After the tree recovered, it was returned to the Memorial in 2010. The tree now stands tall and healthy as reminder of our country's resilience and survival.
Throughout the vigil, the Holy Family Icon with an apostolic blessing was on display. The Icon has been on a pilgrimage from Rome through Knights of Columbus. The Glenn P. Williams Circle Squires were distributing prayers cards to all those who attended.
"We are honored to have the tree donated by the young men of our school as a constant reminder of our country's resilience in a time of tragedy" says Mr. Williams, District Deputy and Chief Counselor of the Knights of Columbus.
For information, call 856-881-0067 or visit www.smrsonline.com.
This item submitted by Sheri Klein, St. Michael the Archangel Regional School.