A Message From the President Concerning Japan; Vigil on March 23, 2011 at 1pm at Carlson Great Room
March 21, 2011
A Service of Prayer for Healing and Help
To Our Mount Ida College Campus Community:
Over the past week, our small community and the world have watched the terrible devastation caused by the 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan. As an institution with strong ties to Japan, including many of our current and former Japanese students and their families, the ELS program and faculty and staff, we extend our deepest condolences and sympathy to the people of Japan and to the members of the Mount Ida community with loved ones or colleagues in Japan.
On Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. in Carlson Great Room, I invite you to join our community in vigil to reflect, mourn and pray for the people of Japan as well as for our own Mount Ida College family who have been directly affected by these tragic events. During times like these, we often turn to symbols for comfort and strength. In the Japanese culture, origami cranes have special significance in prayer. Japanese legend suggests that a wish, such as recovery from illness or injury, will be granted to one who folds a thousand paper cranes. At our vigil, we hope to offer the people of Japan thousands of heartfelt prayers of strength, faith and hope as the country recovers and rebuilds. For those unable to join us, you may still participate by visiting our informational table outside Wingate Dining Hall on Tuesday and Wednesday during lunch to create a paper crane for the vigil.
We anticipate many in our community to organize to raise funds in support of Japan’s recovery. On behalf of the College, I suggest staff, faculty and students visit Charity Navigator (http://www.charitynavigator.org), a trusted and respected non-profit charitable resource, to identify legitimate non-profit organizations that are focused on Japan’s recovery. Unfortunately, during times of crisis there are many unscrupulous people ready to take advantage of others’ good will. Before donating money, please do your due diligence in selecting a non-profit organization to support.
For those students, faculty and staff needing extra emotional support during this difficult time, our staff from the Counseling Center is ready to assist you. Please visit the Center or call 617-928-4599 to set up an appointment. Should you need emergency assistance after business hours, as always, contact Public Safety at 617-928-4777.
Again, our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Japan as they begin the difficult journey of rebuilding and recovering.
Sincerely,
Dr. Lance Carluccio
President
Mount Ida College