Listen to this episode

Theologian Rudolf Otto wrote nearly a century ago that there are two kinds of hallowed ground.  One is a place set apart, for prayer and mediation.  The other is a place set apart because it is entirely 'other' - a place where something happened that is almost beyond the realm of human experience and understanding.

This is a special edition of Tapestry coming to you from Ground Zero in New York City where the dizzying pace of construction is raising questions about how to commemorate the site and how close is too close for an Islamic community center. Next week Mary Hynes will turn to sacred sites around the world.

Guests:  (in order of appearance)

Bruce DeCell - Bruce DeCell is a retired New York City police officer. His son-in-law Mark Petrocelli was 28 years old when he was killed by the attacks on 9/11. Bruce DeCell is a member of 9/11 Families for a Secure America.

Marvin Bethea - Marvin Bethea was a paramedic dispatched to the World Trade Center. He was severely injured on the job, and can no longer work. He is currently seeking compensation, along with other first-responders. He is co-founder of Unsung Heroes Helping Heroes.

Phyllis Rodriguez - Phyllis Rodriguez is a retired teacher. She lost her 32-year-old son Greg Rodriguez to the 9/11 attacks. She is a member of September 11th Families for Peaceful Tomorrows.

Akbar Ahmed - Akbar Ahmed is the Ibn Khaldun Chair of Islamic Studies and professor of International Relations at American University in Washington, D.C.  His latest book is called Journey into America: The Challenge of Islam.

Herb Ouida - Herb Ouida was on the 78th floor of Tower One when the plane crashed into the building. His son Todd Ouida was 25-years-old and was killed in the attack. Herb Ouida created the Todd Ouida Children's Foundation supporting children who struggle with depression and anxiety.
  

Construction is in full swing on the new World Trade Center (images on top and bottom left). Park 51 is the site for the proposed Islamic community center, a couple of blocks north of Ground Zero.

For more information on the World Trade Centre construction site visit their website.

For more information on Park51 development, visit The American Society for Muslim Advancement.

Note: CBC does not endorse and is not responsible for the content of external sites - link will open in new window