By now I am sure that you have heard of the tragic events that unfolded on the campus of Northern Illinois University yesterday, in which at least six people were killed and many others wounded by a gunman.  Sadly, such killings seem to happen more frequently lately, most shockingly at schools and university campuses: settings in which students and their families expect reason and civility to hold sway.

I have written to Dr. John G. Peters, the president of Northern Illinois University, to offer him my condolences and to assure him that all of us at Fordham are praying for the university community.  I would like ask you to join me in praying both for the souls of those who have died, and for healing of those who mourn their deaths.

Sincerely,

Joseph M. McShane, S.J.