A gathering was held at California Lutheran University’s flagpoles on Tuesday, Oct. 10 to provide reflection and community support regarding the escalating tension in Israel and Palestine. 

Reverend Scott Hamilton Adams opened the gathering with Cal Lutheran’s core values of respect, inclusivity, and open dialogue. He said Cal Lutheran recognizes the situation in the Middle East and that it evokes many emotions and perspectives. As a community, Adams said, we must lift one another up, emphasizing empathy, kindness, and the understanding of the different views others may have on the topic.

Colleen Windham-Hughes, associate vice president for Mission and Identity, offered the opening and closing meditations. 

“We believe that, even in times of discord, this university is a place where we can exchange diverse ideas…a step that is fundamental to building a more peaceful world,” President Lori Varlotta said in an email to the Cal Lutheran community. 

For community members who are both directly and indirectly affected by current events, counseling and wellness services are available to students, including the Employee Assistance Program for faculty and staff.