A Message Regarding Acts of Vandalism on Dahlgren Chapel

Dear Members of the Campus Community:

I write today to share some very troubling news and to ask for your assistance. This morning the Department of Public Safety (DPS) received a report that Dahlgren Chapel had been vandalized. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is currently investigating this senseless act and DPS is working closely with them.

While we moved the morning Masses during the process of the police investigation, Dahlgren will be open in time for the evening Masses.

The preliminary investigation indicates that there was no desecration of the Blessed Sacrament or any religious symbols. The primary damage was to furniture and other fixtures. I must underscore that acts of vandalism, especially of sacred places, have no place in our campus community. As a Catholic and Jesuit university, we are committed to fostering a community that is welcoming to people of all religions, races and ethnicities and that values understanding, inclusion and respect.

While we do not know the motivation of the person or persons who committed these acts, nor whether or not they are members of the University community, they are of great concern. I encourage anyone who may have information related to these incidents to contact the Department of Public Safety (DPS) at (202) 687-4343.

I ask that everyone remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or signs of vandalism to DPS at 202-687-4343 or through the anonymous tip form. I also ask that everyone do his or her part to act responsibly, safely, and respectfully.

Sincerely,

John J. DeGioia