Click here to view Fr. Schlegel's Holiday message. 

December 15, 2008

Dear Colleagues:

This Christmas message is a bit early because I wanted to reach the entire Creighton community before you depart for the winter vacation. These past months have been challenging for all of us as individuals and as an institution.  The erratic economy has created much uncertainty even as we prepare for a change in national leadership and America’s redefined role in the world.  The tragedies of Hurricane Ike, Mumbai, Darfur, Iraq and Afghanistan may fade from the headlines, but the pain and suffering remains.  So as we approach the Christmas season, we recall that each of us has the responsibility and the opportunity to be peacemakers – to be bearers of peace to our families, relationships and communities. As the familiar hymn states: “Let there be peace on earth … and let it begin with me.” Let us take that disposition with us as we begin our holiday celebrations, for we all can be crafters of peace in our ever- fragile communities.

The lights of the Creighton Christmas tree and the newly decorated central mall shine brightly.  Winter is upon us as the snow envelopes the landscape; so let the warmth of home and hearth bring you and yours the joys of this season.

As we enter into this special holiday season, we have a great need to be with family and friends and to do some “seasonal” things.  We need time to let go, slow down and reflect on how truly blessed we are.  As I mentioned at Thanksgiving, in spite of our fiscal challenges, Creighton is fortunate to have solid enrollment, great students, quality teachers and researchers, service-focused staff, and the success of our campaign.  So in the spirit of this holiday season, let each of us reach out, embrace, and encourage those around us.

May the life and grace of the Christmas Christ child fill you and restore you; may the light of the Hanukkah menorah shine upon you; may the Kwanzaa spirit of community fill your household; and may all of you have a wonderful holiday, a blessed Christmas, and a happy beginning to the new year.

You and your families are in my prayers and thoughts during this holy season.

John P. Schlegel, S.J.
President