Dear Seton Hall Community,
I am writing as we return from fall break amidst a distressing week for our University and the world. In recent days, we have summoned our fortitude in the face of atrocious violence that erupted — and continues — thousands of miles away in Israel and Gaza.
As a University that cares deeply about its community, we recognize the sorrow and pain many Setonians are experiencing in the wake of the terrorist attacks against Israel, and the subsequent, ongoing violence that is impacting both the Israeli and Palestinian people.
Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree is challenging under ideal circumstances. We acknowledge that carrying on with academics, jobs and campus activities during this time of great anguish is incredibly difficult.
As a caring Catholic community of faith, our hearts go out to innocent victims of violence and hate. And in our increasingly fractured and fallen world, we do our best to find comfort in the words of Christ, who taught us, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:27)
I would like to offer a reminder that Seton Hall is always prepared to assist anyone in our community who would benefit from counseling services. CAPS counselors are ready to talk to students in need, and employees may use the Employee Assistance Program. A wide array of academic support services is available across the South Orange, IHS and law school campuses to help students manage their classroom responsibilities.
Moreover, the priest community stands ready to strengthen our spiritual and emotional well-being, as does Campus Ministry in South Orange, the IHS campus and Seton Hall Law.
Whether or not you choose to avail yourselves of these resources, allow me to make a small request:
Be patient with yourselves and one another. Please treat each other with consideration and grace in these fraught days.
Through the mutual recognition of our shared humanity and Setonian unity, we can rely on each other in these difficult times and, together, hope for healing and better days ahead. I know you will join me in praying for peace and progress in Israel and Palestine.
Sincerely,
