Solidarity Reflection from Campus Ministry
The outbreak of war in Israel and Palestine calls us to prayer, compassion, and solidarity. Campus Ministry stands ready to accompany those for whom this suffering affects personally. As people of faith, though our traditions vary in their language and their beauty, we are surely united in our mourning, our commitment to peace, and our trust in a hope that extends beyond our human understanding. Though our words may fall short, we stand steady beside one another: where there is chaos and death, may we offer light, clarity, and life.
LMU Campus Ministry is available to support you, no matter what you may be feeling at this fraught moment. We recognize especially our Jewish students and community members, our Palestinian students and community members, and all those with family and friends in Israel and Palestine. We are here for you all.
We will have opportunities to listen, debrief, mourn, and be in community. If you need immediate support, you may text Rabbi Zach, Rabbi Elana, or call Marissa Papula, or reach out to Psychological Student Services:
- Rabbi Zach – 310.701.4404
- Rabbi Elana – 650.400.9872
- Marissa Papula – 310.338.2860
- Student Psychological Services - 310.338.2868
This is a dynamic situation and as events continue to unfold, we will continue creating opportunities for understanding and education about this situation. We are praying for the safety and well-being for all people impacted by these horrific acts of violence.
Tonight, Tuesday, October 10, 2023, a prayerful gathering will convene on the steps of Sacred Heart Chapel at 6:00 PM. We hope you will join us.
As one LMU community, let us all pray for peace.
"We pray for the wounded,
We pray for the mourners,
We pray for the restoration of normality.
Ufros Aleinu Sukkat Shlomecha, cover us with the shelter of Your
Peace, may we have the courage to denounce violence and destructiveness, and may we become partners in building that shelter of peace."
– Rabbi Nico Sokolovsky
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
– Matthew 5:9
The believers are brothers, so make peace between your two brothers and be mindful of God, so that you may be given mercy.
– Qur'an 49:10