it was just three years ago (it feels like just yesterday) that members of the Virginia Tech community endured one of the worst massacres in US history. thirty-two students and faculty members were murdered by a fellow student that morning. unfortunately, the devastating effects still ring like the explosions of a firearm in the minds and hearts of so many students and staff at Tech.
WE ARE HOKIES. WE WILL PREVAIL.
on wednesday, i was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to attend a conference for ohio campus ministers down in columbus, ohio where the keynote speaker was none other than fr. john grace (director of campus ministry & chaplain of the newman ctr. at Tech). his inspiring theme was "Voices of Hope," and he shared with us personal anecdotes and insights into the challenges of coping with crises on college campuses. his thoughts and reactions to the events that occurred on April 16th 2007 reminded me of my own personal experiences of the two JCU student suicides that took place on our campus just last semester. grace spoke about the significance of the campus & extended communities that were supportive and available during this difficult time. at one point, he told us that a group of Tech students who participated in an alternative spring break encountered compassion and other individuals who are exposed to violence, hatred and injustices not just once, but daily. this, along with so much more, not only gave Tech students, but us campus ministers a lot to reflect upon.
well, i could share a lot more with regards to grace's presentation/stories, i think i will save those for later. plus, you never know when you yourself may run into him or his students one day. all things considered, i hope you will take some time this day/weekend to spend a quiet moment in prayer and thanksgiving for the reality of the paschal mystery.
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