President's Blog: From the Heart

By Eric F. Spina

Dear University of Dayton Community,

As we return to campus after the Easter break, we do so in the shadow of the death of Pope Francis.

Although the Pope’s health prevented him from delivering the Easter Sunday message, Pope Francis graced the faithful with his presence as Archbishop Diego Ravelli read his moving apostolic blessing to the crowd gathered at St. Peter’s Basilica.

His final words resonated with me, and I encourage us to reflect on them and use them as a guide: “May the principle of humanity never fail to be the hallmark of our daily actions.”

His papacy mirrored our values as a Catholic, Marianist university. We are to treat each person with dignity, particularly the poor, the marginalized, and the vulnerable. We are to care for the planet, “our common home.” We are to stand as peacemakers in a world too often at war and foster solidarity and interfaith dialogue among all people. We are to value the sanctity of human life. We are to build bridges, not walls that divide, and to be inclusive and welcoming, with “doors always wide open.”

These principles were written in his heart, and they remain at the heart of who we are and strive to be.

A black bunting now hangs over the doors of the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, a symbol of mourning. We will pray for Pope Francis during Compline at 9:15 p.m., Thursday, April 24, in the Immaculate Conception Chapel. A memorial Mass will be held at 12:30 p.m., Monday, April 28, in the chapel.

In the days ahead, let us pray for Pope Francis, the Catholic Church, and the cardinals from around the world who will select his successor.

And, in his memory, may the principle of humanity never fail to be the hallmark of our daily actions.

Wishing you God’s grace,

Eric F. Spina
President