December 12, 2007
    

Dear Colleagues:

This Christmas message is a bit early because I wanted to reach the entire Creighton community before you depart for the winter vacation. These past days have been very traumatic for all of us—the Westroads tragedy touched the University, as it did the entire city and, indeed, the nation. Creighton graduates and extended families were both victims and responders. We cried, we prayed, and we resolved to heal our community. As we approach the Christmas season, we recall that each of us has the responsibility and the opportunity to be peacemakers; to be bearers of peace to our families, relationships and communities. As the familiar hymn states: “Let there be peace on earth … and let it begin with me.” Let us take that disposition with us as we begin our holiday celebrations; for we all can be crafters of peace in our ever fragile communities.

The lights of the Creighton Christmas tree and the newly decorated central mall shine brightly.  Winter is upon us as the snow envelopes the landscape; so let the warmth of home and hearth bring you and yours the joys of this season.

We enter into a special holiday season, a special Christmas, this year.  During this past year many of you have experienced life-growing and nurturing moments, as well as challenging and stressful events.  As a nation we are experiencing the war in Iraq, an erratic economy, and a changing political climate.  At this time of year, we have a great need to be with family and friends and to do some “seasonal” things.  We need time to let go, slow down and reflect on how truly blessed we are.  As I mentioned at Thanksgiving, Creighton is fortunate to have had a very good year – solid enrollment, great students, quality teachers and researchers, service-focused staff, and the early success of our campaign.  So in the spirit of this holiday season, let each of us reach out, embrace, and encourage those around us. 

May the life and grace of the Christmas Christ child fill you and restore you; may the light of the Hanukkah menorah shine upon you; may the Kwanzaa spirit of community fill your household; and may all of you have a wonderful holiday, a blessed Christmas, and a happy beginning to the new year.

You and your families are in my prayers and thoughts during this holy season.   

John P. Schlegel, S.J.
President