A Message from Chaminade Julienne Addressing the Events of Jan. 6, 2021
At this time, during unprecedented challenges and stress, we humbly ask for the blessings of our good God - for our students, their families, our community, and our nation.
Dear CJ Community,
Yesterday, we witnessed an unprecedented and unlawful attack on our country, our Constitution, our values, and the people we elected to represent us in the U.S. Congress. Having visited the U.S. Capitol Building and walked the halls of that special place - as so many of us have - my heart is heavy as I consider the scenes of violence and mayhem.
Nonetheless, the work of the people of the United States continued. The results of the presidential election have been certified and the transition of power can now be fully initiated.
For those of us of faith, this event must serve as an inflection point in our response to all public officials. We must call them to unite us rather than divide; to call forth the best of us, not the worst; to use differences as an opportunity for understanding, not for demonizing; and to work for the common good, not the selfish interests. And we must turn to prayer - that our own hearts may be more fully opened to the challenges faced by so many in our country and our world; that we may use our hands, our heads, and our hearts to bring about meaningful and lasting change; and that we will work so that the promise of our nation may be fully realized in our lifetimes.
I offer a prayer prepared a few years ago by Fr. Angelo Anthony, C.PP.S, the pastor of Emmanuel Catholic Church.
God of life, source of hope,
the violence in our world,
our communities and our families,
indeed in our very selves,
is destroying Your creation.
Make still the restless spirit within me
that is self-seeking.
Stir within me a renewed Spirit
of reverence, respect, and reconciliation.
in union with the Precious Blood of Jesus
give me the strength to break
the cycle of violence by realizing
that peace begins with me.
the violence in our world,
our communities and our families,
indeed in our very selves,
is destroying Your creation.
Make still the restless spirit within me
that is self-seeking.
Stir within me a renewed Spirit
of reverence, respect, and reconciliation.
in union with the Precious Blood of Jesus
give me the strength to break
the cycle of violence by realizing
that peace begins with me.
Amen.
At this time, during unprecedented challenges and stress, we humbly ask for the blessings of our good God - for our students, their families, our community, and our nation. May we have the fortitude and sense of mercy and charity to meet the needs of our times.
God bless,
Dan Meixner '84
President
President
--This message was published on January 7, 2021.
