Statement on Start of War with Iraq

Students, faculty and staff at Holy Cross join together in offering our prayers for all those imperiled by the war in Iraq, including American troops and others taking part in the war and for innocent Iraqi citizens who have already suffered so much. We pray for the safe return of the troops and for the well-being of the people of Iraq.

As Pope John Paul II said in opposing a preemptive war against Iraq, "war is always a defeat for humanity." We are saddened that diplomacy has failed and war has resulted. We pray for a swift conclusion to this war and we hope that its effects will be contained and that it will lead to a more stable and just society for the Iraqi people.

The Federal Department of Homeland Security has raised the national security alert to level orange.

Related information: College Issues Information on Heightened Security Measures

College Provides Updated Information on Heightened Security Measures "Holy Cross has not received or been alerted to any specific threats to our campus, but we want to assure the community that we remain vigilant in maintaining the highest security measures possible at this time of higher national alert," says Michael C. McFarland, S.J., president of the College.

As you may know, the Federal Department of Homeland Security has raised the national security alert to level orange. You may wonder what this means for Holy Cross.

We want you to know that College has an up-to-date Emergency Response Manual designed to provide a guide for the College to deal with campus-wide emergencies. There is an active Campus Emergency Resource Team responsible for contingency planning and responding to emergencies. The team includes the following offices: the president of the College, physical plant, administrative services, public safety, student affairs, public affairs, counseling center, health services, chaplains' office, general counsel, and vice presidents.

If you do witness something of a suspicious nature, do not hesitate to contact Public Safety at x.2224 or in an emergency at x.2222.

It is natural to feel increased anxiety during these uncertain times. Please know that the Counseling Center and the Office of the College Chaplains are always available to talk with you if the anxiety becomes overwhelming or you wish to speak with a professional. You may contact the Counseling Center x.3363 or call the Chaplains Office at x.2448.

For faculty and staff, the College's employee assistance program is The Wellness Corporation, a 24-hours a day, 7 days a week resource at 1-800-828-6025.

For additional information about planning at the national level, the Department of Homeland Security has a site with a great deal of resource information at www.ready.gov