When we communicate about Loyola, we try to offer a glimpse into what it’s like here. (I suppose one could extrapolate that we are also presenting what it is not like here.) A thorough, authentic, three dimensional view of the place – whether it’s revealed on a website, in a publication, during an event, a phone call, etc. – is paramount as potential undergraduate students and their parents, potential employees, and potential graduate students choose to be a part of our community. Integrity in the marketing process is essential. We would never want someone to enroll here – in whatever capacity – and find that we are not as we were presented. So, we like to share as much as we possibly can. Thus, as only one example, this great website of ours.
One of the reasons I am so comfortable at Loyola is that it affirms my belief that every person God has created is filled with goodness and the ability to make a unique contribution to the whole. Loyola – and Jesuit educations, in general – value inclusion. If you value this, too, read on. Loyola might be a great fit for you!
I also believe that the best universities thrive because they represent the value of finding God in all, in all experiences, actions, and, of course, people. Earlier today Kurt Bindewald, director of university ministry, sent this beautiful message to our community. Upon reading it, I was inspired to compose the message above and I knew I had to share his thoughts with you to offer another authentic aperture to the Loyola experience:
Our God is revealed to us daily through many different people, cultures and faith traditions. In the Jesuit charism of recognizing the joy, beauty and truth in the diverse human experience of God, we remember today those in our Loyola community who observe special times within their own faith traditions.
Our Jewish brothers and sisters celebrate at sundown today Rosh Hashanah, the formal beginning of their spiritual new year and a time for introspection and being accountable for the deeds of the past year.
Our Muslim sisters and brothers end their Ramadan fast this week. Ramadan is a time to practice inner reflection, devotion to God, self control and doing good deeds. Fasting between the breaking of dawn to the setting of the sun helps to purify one’s behavior, develop sympathy for the less fortunate and gain a better appreciation for God’s blessings.
May all of us at Loyola who seek to know and serve God better support one another on our spiritual journeys. May our diversity of opinion and worship strengthen the educational and spiritual growth of this learning community which strives to celebrate God’s amazing and varied presence in all of creation.
