Bush remembers 9/11 attacks

2004-09-11 16:20

Washington - US president George W Bush attended a prayer service remembering the September 11 attacks and paid silent tribute at the White House on Saturday to mark the third anniversary of the day that transformed his presidency.

Bush's actions after the terrorist strikes have underpinned his campaign for re-election.

The president, departing from his practice of taping his weekly radio address, delievred a live broadcast from the Oval Office on Saturday morning. Surrounded by relatives of victims of the attacks, firefighters and other emergency responders, he was to focus on the Sept. 11 terrorist strikes.

Bush's September 11 observances, similar to how he spent the anniversary last year, began with a service of prayer and remembrance at St. John's Episcopal Church near the White House.

The president and the first lady, Laura Bush, both dressed in black, lit candles to open the ceremony but said nothing during the service nor as they left.

In his homily, the rector, the Reverend Luis Leon, reminded Bush that "part of his role is to be chaplain to this nation." Leon also warned that in responding to the terrorist attacks, "hatred is not the answer" and admonished his congregation to "pray for those who mean to do us harm."

- AP