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COLUMBIA - Concerned citizens from several faith communities and peace groups will host Columbia events later this week commemorating the horrific criminal attacks of 9/11. The events will also touch upon the subsequent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, mourning the lives of all people devastated by the violence, and urging an end to the wars.

On Sunday, Sept. 11, leaders of various faith communities will share reflections at approximately 1:30 pm in the Islamic Center of Central Missouri, 201 S. 5th St. Columbia, then participate in a reflective procession to the Boone County Courthouse for a brief commemorative program.

A news conference will take place at 9:30 am, Friday, Sept. 9 in Russell Chapel CME Church, 108 E. Ash in downtown Columbia. The conference will feature comments by Rev. Maureen Dickmann, pastor of Rock Bridge Christian Church; Mark Haim, director of Mid-Missouri Peaceworks; Shakir Hamoodi, a congregant of the Islamic Center of Central Missouri and Rev. Carmen Williams, pastor of Russell Chapel CME Church.

"We continue to mourn the tragic deaths of the more than 3000 people killed ten years ago during the horrific attacks of 9/11," says Rev. Dickmann. He says the 10th anniversary of the terrorist crimes provides our society with sober motivation to end the violence, starting with the United States ceasing the wars in the three countries.

At the Islamic Center on Sunday, the 9/11 anniversary, individuals from Christian, Muslim, Judaic, Buddhist, Hindu and Baha'i local communities will share perspectives on the tragedies from their diverse faith traditions, unified in fundamental adherence to peace with compassionate social justice. Columbia Mayor Bob McDavid will also join those gathered. Following the reading of the group's proclamation, presenters will lead a solemn procession to the Boone County Courthouse Square (inside the County Commission Chambers, in the event of inclement weather) for a brief program, "We Declare Peace; No More Victims," sponsored by the Columbia Peace Coalition. It will feature talks by area religious leaders, music by Lee Ruth and Steve Jacobs plus readings from members of Peaceful Tomorrows, a group of individuals who lost loved ones during 9/11 attacks, yet opposed the ensuing US wars.