On Wednesday we commemorate the first anniversary of the tragedies of September 11th. It is appropriate that we pause for a moment and reflect on the events of that day as well as pray for the victims of those three tragedies. Their families, friends, colleagues and co-workers, I am sure, would also appreciate your prayers. It is my hope that each of you can reflect and commemorate this day in your own way.

At the same time I ask that you pray for the leadership of this country. As the engines of war rev up, we must seek justice, but not vengeance. We must protect civilians and civilizations; we must not imitate our attackers of September last, we must not demonize ethnic or religious groups.

America's leaders must be focused, disciplined, and responsible for the actions they undertake. Pray that our government's response will be carefully measured, diplomatically brokered, and one that seeks the common good.

As I wrote to you last September, "As we begin this next chapter in this extraordinary turn in human events, we must do so as women and men of faith, hope and confidence. We pray that we each may be instruments of peace in our own time and place. We pray that our leaders have the courage to uphold what they believe to be right with integrity in word and deed."

Finally, let us, as the Creighton community, continue to be a community in dialogue and conversation; a community that is faith-based and justice-focused.

I suggest that some of you might want to look at the Creighton "Daily Reflection" for September 11th. Father Andy Alexander, S.J., has a very moving reflection for this sad anniversary.

Remember, too, that the annual Mass of the Holy Spirit is celebrated on Wednesday at 11 a.m. and an inter-faith service/program is scheduled for 7 p.m. in the Student Center.

With all best wishes,

John P. Schlegel, S.J.
President