Catholic Campus Ministry - The Newman Community at Virginia Tech

Letter from Fr. John to the community concerning the events of
December 8, 2011.

Fellow Hokies and friends of Newman,

Last night this community came together to celebrate the end of a great semester and highlight the hope and promise of the Advent season and Christmas. It felt good to be together, to sing the songs of joy in the music and share in the sweetness of of community and belonging. It was the perfect way to mark who we are in faith, service and community. Today the power of violence to destroy life and bring down hope is in front of us all in its raw evil. No words can explain and no gesture undo the results of this choice to kill. We stand helpless and vulnerable once again. It is here where our faith must speak the clearest. It's now when our community must be present in hope and solidarity.

The promise of Christmas is the reality that God has chosen to fully share in our humanity. God loves us in our broken existence and will take on everything that can harm us, even our suffering and death. We never walk alone. The words of the prophet Isaiah offers us assurance, Comfort, give comfort to my people says your God.

Be present and supportive of each other, pray for those who have died, and let us offer ourselves in service to all who suffer as compassionate friends and companions on the same journey.

May the Peace of Christ be in your hearts and his promise give you strength.
Fr. John