Lourdes University Schedules Service for Prayer, Reflection and Call to Action
The Lourdes University Community is deeply saddened and horrified by the unjust killing of George Floyd. We hold in our prayers the Floyd family who is grieving the loss of their loved one and all individuals who have suffered unjustly.
In 1979, the U.S. Catholic Bishops issued a Pastoral Letter identifying racism as a sin, one that “divides the human family, blots out the image of God among specific members … and violates the fundamental dignity of those called to be children of the same Father.” Four decades later, the sin of racism continues to inhibit our attempts to assure a true civil society.
Lourdes is a Franciscan university, one that values a diverse community, where all individuals are reverenced. As a liberal arts institution committed to finding truth and making meaning of the world, the Lourdes University community must actively help our nation heal.
While some progress has been made on racial inequality, fundamental change has not occurred. The resultant link between racism and economic injustice must be addressed and not ignored.
Lourdes wholeheartedly supports peaceful protests against racial injustice and all forms of inequality. Working together with the greater community, Lourdes seeks to be a leader, playing our part in modeling a society that respects the dignity of every human being.
We invite community leaders and all citizens to join us on Thursday, June 4 at 12 noon. As a united community, we will gather on mid campus near the Ebeid Recreation Center for prayer, reflection and a call to action.
During the service, attendees will be encouraged to identify and make a commitment to a personal and professional action they can take to help eliminate racism and economic injustice. We must individually and collectively work toward a better society where all are valued and treated fairly.
For the health and safety of all, attendees are required to wear face coverings during this event and observe social distancing protocols.