A Call for Solidarity

Dear Members of the Georgetown Community:
 
In our distress at the fatal shootings of Philando Castile, Alton Sterling, Sherman Evans and the Police Officers in Dallas last night, we once again ask ourselves, how do we respond? How can we work together for justice and peace when we find ourselves so deeply divided? How do we overcome our violence and our racism when tragedy upon tragedy reopens our own deepest wounds?

As the religious leaders of the various faith traditions at Georgetown University, we offer one word: Solidarity.

We embrace the truth of our interdependence, and the challenges and opportunities of learning to live together. Our common humanity, our desire to live in peace, and our basic human needs all bind us together. In solidarity, we recognize our shared humanity in all of its joys, hopes and sufferings. In solidarity, we strive to bear each other’s dreams and each other’s wounds. In solidarity, we lead each other down the path of peace.
 
Today we repeat the words of Pope Francis, as he called for justice that values all people: “No amount of ‘peace-building’ will be able to last, nor will harmony and happiness be attained in a society that ignores, pushes to the margins or excludes a part of itself. A society of that kind simply impoverishes itself, it loses something essential. No one is disposable!” (7/25/13, Varginha)
 
We invite all members of the Georgetown community to join us Sunday, July 10th, at 7:30 p.m. for Mass in Dahlgren Chapel. Fr. Ray Kemp will lead us in prayer for solidarity with the victims and survivors of this week’s tragedies.
 
If you find yourself in need of additional support and want to talk with someone on campus here are some resources:

• To schedule an appointment with CAPS (Counseling and Psychiatric Services), students may call (202) 687-6985 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday–Friday. In the event of an urgent need after hours, call (202) 444-7243 and ask for the CAPS clinician on call.
• The Office of Campus Ministry is available to all students during business hours by calling (202) 687-5259 .
• Members of the faculty and staff can be in touch with the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program by emailing fsap@georgetown.edu or calling 202-687-2409 to set-up an appointment.

In hope,
 
Rev. Greg Schenden, SJ
Roman Catholic Chaplain
 
Rabbi Rachel Gartner
Director for Jewish Life                               
 
Imam Yahya Hendi
Director for Muslim Life
 
Rev. Bryant Oskvig
Director of the Protestant Chaplaincy
 
V. Rev. Constantine White                           
Director of the Orthodox Chaplaincy