A Message of Solidarity from University President the Rev. Thomas B. Curran, S.J.

Dear Companions of Rockhurst University,

The recent demonstrations of hatred, rejection, violence, racism and murder in our nation have me recalling Martin Luther King Jr.’s letter from a Birmingham jail. He wrote, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.... (W)hat affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” 

Last night, I attended a memorial service at Kehilath Israel Synagogue. Over 1,500 people from our community gathered with religious, civic and community leaders to sing and pray for the recent victims and their families, to recommit themselves to living together in peace, and to acknowledging that we need one another and the providence of God to pursue justice.
 
We each occupy space, but we share time. And time is sacred. This is the essence of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s beloved book, The Sabbath. 

I recognize that time is limited and therefore precious for all of us. However, I believe the recent events of our nation invite us to consider spending sacred time with one another. Below are two possibilities of doing just that. In the event that neither of these work for you, I hope you will consider sharing some of your sacred time — Sabbath — here on campus, at home or in your community. 

It just may be the cura personalis we all need and deserve.

Friday, Nov. 2:

• The Office of Residence Life is hosting “Beyond Words: A Tunnel of Oppression,” which allows participants to view student actors depicting various forms of oppression and marginalization. Faculty and staff can register for two tours beginning at 4:15 p.m. with general admission sign-up available throughout the evening.
• The New Reform Temple at 7100 Main St. is inviting the community to attend a Shabbat Service of Solidarity at 6 p.m. The effort is part of a nationwide #ShowUpforShabbat campaign that will offer opportunity for prayer and mourning.

Sincerely,

Thomas B. Curran, S.J.
President