Christmas

I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. John 8:12

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:

For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, now is the darkest time of year. But it is also — here and all around the world — the Advent season, when we mark the time leading up to the birth of Jesus, who called Himself “the light of the world.”

Just as on that first Christmas the Magi followed the Star of Bethlehem to find the Christ child in the dark of night, so we, in our time, are also witness to the brilliance of God’s light. And we are called, as followers of Christ, to be lights unto the world.

At Valparaiso University, we are blessed with a truly special community of people dedicated to sharing the light of God both here and wherever in the world they go. We are grateful for each and every one of you, and inspired by your burning passion for spreading the Valpo spirit of love, humility, and service, following Jesus’ example. In Luce Tua Videmus Lucem — “In Thy Light We See Light.”

Although the days are now short and the nights long, at Christmastime — and the rest of the year — we live as people of light, following the star of truth and devotion, never walking in darkness. We strive to humbly lead and serve. May God’s light shine ever brightly upon you and your loved ones this Christmas.

Peace,

Mark A. Heckler, Ph.D.
President
Valparaiso University