AOL Hosts Community Prayer Service for Peace and Justice

On Friday, June 19 friends and members of the Academy of Our Lady community gathered, in the evening on campus, in prayer to advocate for social justice and racial equality. The prayer service, coordinated by Academy's Student Union Diversity in Action (SUDIA) club members along with the peer ministers, began with a march of remembrance followed by prayer, scripture and reflection. Guest speakers included Father Sydney Speaks, Father Colin Braud, Dr. Dana Andrus and Seminarian Joseph Rivera.
 
SUDIA member and junior Tyler Scott explained during the welcome that the purpose of the prayer service is to pray for spiritual direction, guidance and wisdom from God as we face tough challenges in our world. "We gather to acknowledge those situations that are causing tension, unrest and division in many of our communities. As citizens of this community and the larger global community, we must make a commitment to become advocates for appropriate and meaningful change where it is needed throughout society,"
Scott continued. "As Christians we believe and trust that God can and will guide the hearts and minds of our leaders and each of us to make decisions based on the teachings and commands of Jesus, "Love one another, as I have loved you."
 
As Sr. Michelle Geiger expressed her sincere gratitude to SUDIA Moderator Mr. Clark Knighten, students, guest speakers and attendees, she ended with an important message. "As we advocate for the needed fundamental and systemic change with our words, our action and our presence, we know that it is through prayer, dialogue and unity that the change of minds and hearts can take place. This formative journey and active responsible citizenship are essential in our mission at Academy of Our Lady.