Vigil for Victims of Gun Violence and Resources for Campus Community

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

As a university community, we condemn the tragic gun violence that has afflicted the communities of Buffalo and Uvalde in the past two weeks. And yet, condemnation cannot possibly be a strong enough word when we speak of even one mass shooting, let alone the 213 mass shootings in the United States just this year, with 27 of them taking place in schools. So, we do the first thing that we can do, which is to join together to mourn those who have lost their lives to this senseless violence as well as to support and comfort all those in our campus community who are grieving during this painful time.

I invite you to a prayer vigil, organized by Campus Ministry, at 1 p.m. on Thursday, June 2, at the reflecting pool outside of the Chapel of St. Ignatius. This vigil will immediately follow our 12:30 p.m. daily mass, which will be offered in memory of the victims.

As a Jesuit and Catholic university, we stand firmly against all acts of violence, and remember that we are reminded of our call to stand with all who suffer in our world. As we continue to pray for all those impacted by this senseless violence, our mission and commitment to compassion and peace must drive us forward in spirit and in deed. Let us stand in solidarity with those who are suffering and recommit ourselves as agents of peace and justice.

It is also important that we are attentive to those in our community who are struggling with this violence. There are a number of resources available to students and colleagues needing care and support during this difficult and painful time: 

• Students can call Counseling and Psychological Services (206-296-6090) and leave a voice message to schedule an appointment; and also have 24/7 access to the Timely Care app;

• Campus Ministers are available in Student Center 120. Call 206-296-6075 or 206-296-6053 for an appointment;

• Veterans and military service members can visit The Outreach Center in STCN 110 during operating hours (9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday);

• Staff and faculty seeking support can access SU’s EAP benefits through Resources for Living. Please contact Human Resources for more information; and

• Additional resources are also available through the Dean of Students on our website, in Student Center 140 or by calling 206-296-6060.

 In prayer and peace,

Tammy Liddell
Director of Campus Ministry