Today we remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001
We remember every life lost on September 11, 2001, at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The profound sadness, fear, and disbelief of that morning still feel like yesterday. But amidst the darkness and tragedy, we witnessed something extraordinary: the courage of people who ran toward danger to help those in need. We honor the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, doctors, nurses, clergy, volunteers, and countless others who responded with remarkable courage, selflessness, and sacrifice.
The Catholic Charities network, as it always does in times of difficulty, responded with an outpouring of support. Thanks to the generosity of donors across the nation, Catholic Charities USA distributed $31 million to Catholic Charities agencies providing counseling, comfort, and care to those directly affected.
Twenty-five years later, 9/11 reminds us of who we are called to be: people who see suffering and respond with love, dignity, and hope. May we all always remember those we lost and those who served. And may we continue to turn remembrance into service, compassion, and action.
This week in Washington
Overview: The House was in session this week and passed H.R. 6500, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2027 (CR), which funds the government through December 11 at current levels and blocks the finalization of the Office of Management and Budget proposed rule on federal financial assistance. The CR was passed by a vote of 370-48 and was signed by the President the next day. Following the passage of the CR, House leadership announced that they will start their "October Recess" early, meaning that the House will be out of session from September 15 through November 9. At this time, the Senate is still expected to return on September 14 for a brief period, but this may change.
Economy: In the week ending September 5, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 206,000, a decrease of 1,000 from the previous week's revised level. The previous week's level was revised up by 1,000 from 206,000 to 207,000. The 4-week moving average was 206,000, a decrease of 1,500 from the previous week's revised average. The previous week's average was revised up by 250 from 207,250 to 207,500.
