Because the opening of the 2018 Hancock Symposium came on 9/11, the anniversary of terrorism attacks in 2001, the event started with words of remembrance.
"Today's date calls to mind pain and fear from this tragedy," said Kiva Nice-Webb, chaplain and director of the Center for Faith and Service, at the opening event. "It calls to mind the unnecessary violence and despair (that can come) from the human heart."
On Sept. 11, 2001, terrorists took over four airplanes. Two crashed into and brought down towers at the World Trade Center in New York City. Another dove into the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. Heroes fought against the hijackers in the fourth plane and it crashed into a field in Pennsylvania. Thousands died, and more die every day from exposure to toxic building dust.
"The weight of this tragedy is hard to bear," Nice-Webb said.
The theme of this year's symposium revolves around creativity and innovation. The last day of events is today.
"I encourage each of us to enter fully into the next two days," Nice-Webb told the audience gathered at Champ Auditorium. "Seek creative solutions to complex problems. It is by hope that each of us finds our own role in that endeavor."