Foreman, Ark. – On Friday at 8:30 a.m., Foreman High School will host Rev. Stuart Hoke, an Episcopal priest who created a chapel for rescue workers at the World Trade Center site after the September 11, 2001 attacks. The event, sponsored by the Texarkana Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, gives students a chance to hear a first‑hand account of survival, service and the role of faith in a national tragedy.

From the subway to Ground Zero

Hoke, born in Memphis and raised in Blytheville, Arkansas, was riding the subway on the morning of September 11 when the first plane struck the North Tower. Passengers were initially told to evacuate, then to re‑board, and the train continued to a stop just a block from the tower. Upon exiting, Hoke saw smoke, debris and a crowd fleeing the scene. As a second plane hit the South Tower, he rushed to Trinity Wall Street, an Episcopal church in Lower Manhattan, where he and the organist led an impromptu service of hymns, scripture readings and prayers for frightened worshippers.

Chapel for rescue workers

After the South Tower collapsed, police ordered the church’s evacuation. The following day, Hoke returned to work and helped open a neighboring chapel as a haven for rescue workers. The space provided meals, a place to sleep, and medical, psychological and spiritual care for those rebuilding the site.

Local connection and legacy

Now residing in Charlotte, North Carolina, Hoke’s story resonates with the Foreman community, especially as the nation marks the 25th anniversary of the attacks on New York, Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and the Pentagon. The school’s students will hear how faith and compassion can guide individuals through the darkest moments, reinforcing the values of service and family that underpin our community.

Foreman High School encourages families to attend and reflect on the enduring lessons of courage, faith, and unity.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.