Dear Students and Colleagues,
As the fall semester comes to a close, I cannot help but reflect on the joy and hope I’ve felt through sharing my time with you these past few months. Reconnecting with the people and things that we love, and reminding ourselves of the gift of our connection to the College community, is an experience we should never take for granted. Being loved and sharing love are particularly crucial in a world where, right now, events are disrupting and damaging lives in unimaginable ways.
It’s an incredible gift to have the opportunity to be together and to share with one another. We should keep those who do not have the richness of time and occasion close in our hearts and those who, perhaps because of war or poverty, or illness or age, are alone. Seek out someone who might be lonely or afraid or suffering or separated from the people they love, and share your gift of connection and promise.
My wish for you this winter break is that you experience the inner joy and peace exemplified through the birth of Christ, feel the warmth of the light that comes from rededication during Hanukkah, revel in the now and take quiet moments to reflect on the past and prepare for the future.
I hope you will enjoy the video below, featuring a glimpse of the sights and sounds of Christmas and the holidays here on Mount St. James. May you and your families enjoy the gifts of connection, faith, hope and peace this holiday season.
Sincerely,
Vincent D. Rougeau
President