The Catholic University of America Adopts Community Pledge

From Catholic Education Daily

By Tim Drake

The Catholic University of America is adopting a Community Pledge created through the joint efforts of students and administrators, calling the campus to embrace a life of Christian virtue.

"It is our hope that the Pledge will serve to renew and deepen our commitment to building the body of Christ and a more just society," stated President John Garvey and Chaplain Fr. Jude DeAngelo, O.M.F. Conv., in an April 2 letter explaining the pledge. "It becomes the 'charter' binding us to live the virtues we profess.

Among the promises included in the pledge are:

• To pursue a life of virtue as I progress in my studies

• To recognize that each person is created in God’s image and likeness

• To live in right relationship with other members of our community, seeking reconciliation when it is called for and asking forgiveness when I fail

• To build a community where everyone is treated with respect

• To reject and witness against bullying and violence toward women or men of any race, creed, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status

• To treat the University and private property with care and respect

• To see myself as a child of God, choosing self-respect, a healthy life-style and gratitude for my gifts and talents

• To share my own special gifts with the community

A signing ceremony will take place on Founders Day, April 10, at 4 p.m. in the Edward J. Pryzbyla University Center. The University invites the community to consider signing the pledge, which will remain in the Center's Atrium through Friday, April 19.

As part of the effort, the University intends to present every incoming student a copy of the pledge and invite them to sign it during Orientation.

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