No one was left sitting as Reverend J-Glenn Murray, S.J. delivered his last “Amen” at the conclusion of his address.
Murray was honored Thursday afternoon during the Lafarge Convocation, at Fairfield’s Quick Center for the Arts, with the Reverend John Lafarge, S.J. award. He received recognition for his work on behalf of cultural diversity and spiritual unity.
Murray is currently a parochial vicar at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church, in the archdiocese of Washington, DC. Murray is also the principal drafter of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ document, “Plenty Good Room: the Spirit and Truth of African-American Catholic Worship”.
Following the presentation of his award, Murray delivered an illuminating address during which he expressed his belief in Martin Luther Kings’ dream of world peace and justice.
“The character of Martin Luther King is remembered to this day,” said Murray, “his character is what led him to act for justice and act in peace.”
Murray evoked the attention of the audience within the first two minutes of the address by deviating from the norm and breaking into song. A song to remind listeners that “Before all else there is God,” a message that was consistent throughout the event.
To act in peace and to strive for justice were two prominent ideas pushed during his sermon.
“Peace,” as he quoted Martin Luther King, “is not a distant goal, but a means to get to that goal. The end is pre-existent in the means.”
The resounding “Amen” from the audience at the close of his speech followed the driving words of King, “You only need a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love,” to make a difference.
While many students came to the convocation to fulfill a class requirement, some audience members like Kristin Levandoski ’10 appreciated the event.
“I am glad I stayed,” she said. “It was very inspirational and he had a different take on the subject.”
Darryl Brackeen ’09 said, “Father Murray brings a lot of very inspirational concepts to the table. It was cool when he started singing.”
Murray’s powerful address not only caught student’s attention.
Chair and Professor of the Politics Department John Orman was impressed at the close of the ceremony.
“He was fantastic, entertaining, educational, and inspirational,” he said.
Director of Peace and Justice Studies, politics professor Jocelyn Boryczka said, “I believe that Fairfield should express its commitment to peace and justice. I was doing my part my attending.”
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