In destruction, rubble, and sorrow we can find Jesus. Franciscan friar, priest and chaplain to the New Your City Fire Department, Father Mychal Judge was among one of the first responders on the scene of the September 11 attacks. Father Mychal’s friary was blocks away from the twin towers and as the first plane tore into them he ran to offer what he could; prayers, comfort, and anointing of those afflicted.
Father Judge was a prominent figure in the city, renowned for his compassionate service to various marginalized communities. He dedicated his time to ministering to the homeless, the hungry, individuals recovering from alcohol addiction, those afflicted with AIDS, the ill and injured, grieving souls, immigrants, gays, lesbians, and anyone who felt alienated by society. On one occasion, Judge demonstrated his selflessness by giving away his winter coat to a homeless woman on the street, remarking, “She needed it more than me.”
In a touching moment, when he anointed a man who was battling AIDS, the man questioned, “Do you think God hates me?” Judge responded by embracing him, kissed his forehead, and holding him in silent solace. His dedication extended to collaborating with St. Clare’s Hospital, where he played a pivotal role in establishing the city’s first AIDS ward, initiating an active AIDS ministry. He tirelessly visited hospitals, provided support to AIDS patients and their families, presided over numerous funerals, and offered guidance to fellow Catholics.
Throughout his life, Judge remained steadfast for the marginalized, but on September 11 he made his lasting mark on this world. At 9:59 AM when the South Tower collapsed, Father Mychal, struck by debris, was found dead. Being carried out by five firemen he would later be labeled “Victim 0001.” In life Father Mychal would never have labeled himself a victim on the contrary he was an advocate for victims. Unbeknownst to him on that morning, he was not running to the towers, he was running to the doorsteps of heaven.
This week, let us offer prayers for those lives lost by acts of terrorism, but let’s not stop there. As Father Mychal Judge consoled the marginal, let us too console those who feel unloved, let us be a beacon of hope for someone who does not see the light of Christ, and let everyone see Jesus in our actions.
The following words are what Father Mychal prayed each day, let these words guide your week.
Lord, take me where you want me to go;
let me meet who you want me to meet;
tell me what you want me to say;
and keep me out of your way.