Remembering the FDNY chaplain lost on 9/11
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FDNY Chaplain Mychal Judge rushed to the World Trade Center in New York City on September 11, 2001, immediately after the first plane struck the towers.
He went to pray for those trapped, the first responders, and all of humanity. Judge, also a Franciscan priest, served as a mentor and friend to many, including Father Michael Duffy, and was known for his humility and willingness to listen.
A French film crew documenting the FDNY captured footage of Judge praying in the lobby of the north tower before the south tower collapsed, killing him and many others. His body, carried from the wreckage, became a lasting image of the tragedy, representing the nearly 3,000 people who died. Judge had been the FDNY chaplain since 1992, offering support to firefighters and others.
Before joining the Franciscan order, he grew up in Brooklyn, New York, shining shoes near his local church. Duffy recalled knowing Judge would be at the towers when the attacks began, and said Judge’s spirit continues to inspire service and compassion. Judge’s helmet and gear are now displayed at the New York City Fire Museum as part of the FDNY memorial.
