The day began with a meeting of the Campus Ministry Association. Facilitated by a staff person designated by the University 15 representatives discussed possibilities to help the university (students, administration and faculty) to continue the healing process. Many good ideas and concerns were surfaced and acted upon. In addition to the campus ministers and university representative, American Red Cross, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, and a representative from the alumni association were in attendance.

After the meeting those in attendance went outside the Catholic Campus Ministers center to observe the moment of silence at noon.

Jim and Bobb then attended the memorial service for one of the professors killed in the shooting. The service was held at the Blacksburg Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Alex Evans officiated at the service. Professor Kevin Granada was not a member of Blacksburg Presbyterian, but for a variety of reasons the family requested the service to be held at the church. We had the opportunity to see and share prayer with the Rev. Evans before the service. The Rev. Evans’ leadership helped to provide a healing experience for the 750 plus in attendance.

Bobb and Jim then went to the drill field on the campus of Virginia Tech. The drill field is the open gathering space for the campus. The experience was quite moving. The spontaneous memorials were outstanding. Of special note was the presence of 33 memorials. There were 32 for the victims and one for the shooter.

At one end of the drill field was the War Memorial Chapel. The chapel was open to anyone seeking a sacred space. During the time at the drill field and chapel there were opportunities for conversations with other chaplains, students and parents. Once again the ministry of presence and holy conversation were an important part of the days experience. Bobb and Jim offered our debriefing ministry to their chaplains deployed for this event.

Bobb placed a telephone call on behalf of himself, Jim, and PDA, to the Rev. Steve Poos-Benson, pastor of Columbine United Church in Littleton, Colorado, in memory of the Columbine shootings of eight years ago this date.