The T. Mort. Chaplaincy at Ground Zero: Presence and Privilege on Holy Ground

Drawing on interviews with the chaplains and archival material from Disaster Chaplaincy Services—NY, this article discusses the formation of the chaplaincy at the Temporary Mortuary at Ground Zero after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. It describes the initial chaplaincy response in New York by local clergy and the SAIR team of the American Red Cross. The first 6 weeks of chaplaincy at Ground Zero are explored highlighting the significant contributions of the Archdiocese of New York and Episcopal Diocese of New York out of St. Paul’s Chapel. The mission and impact of the Temporary Mortuary chaplains’ ministry of presence and blessing is discussed with some final reflections for the future of Disaster Chaplaincy.