Dear Concordia Cardinals,
On this first day of April, as we launch deeper into Holy Week and look forward to the upcoming Easter weekend, I want to continue sharing openly with you the effects of COVID-19 on our campus community. As many of you know, we have seen an uptick in the number of positive cases and also those in quarantine. This is true throughout the state of Michigan, too. I invite you to join with me in prayer for each of these individuals, their families, and all who are struggling at this time.
COVID by the numbers – 04-01-21
- 19 positive active cases (18 students + 1 employee) connected to our campus community (this number is updated each weekday morning on our website).
- 40 students and 7 employees are in quarantine.
Timely and critical reminders
- Diligence is paramount this weekend. As many of you prepare to return home over the holiday weekend, we encourage you to be mindful of choices you make. Your personal diligence and commitment to our COVID mitigation protocols are the reason for our past success and will be critical to our successful completion of this academic year.
- Returning to campus after Easter: We will not alter or change any existing protocols prior to the end of the semester. COVID capacity limitations, the daily symptom tracker, mask wearing, physical distancing, and frequent handwashing continue to be proven ways to reduce exposure to the virus, keep our community healthy, and keep us together on campus.
- Vaccine update: In Michigan, beginning April 5, everyone 16 years old and up will be eligible for a vaccine. We have submitted requests to the Washtenaw County Health Department and also to Rite Aid for Concordia to be a vaccine clinic site, but have not heard back details of when or how that might occur. We strongly encourage you to consider various vaccine options, including through your primary care physician.
An Easter encouragement
As a Christ-centered institution, these days ahead are meaningful for many reasons. In fact, I’d encourage you to read this important meditation about Maundy Thursday, written by Rev. Randy Duncan, our campus pastor.
The Christmas tree that was placed in the center of our Central Campus back in November – that was cut into a cross at the beginning of Lent – and now will be cut down and brought into the Chapel for our Easter celebration next week, reminds us that our Savior Jesus came for us. His love for you led him to death – even death on a cross. But the tomb could not hold him; death would not be the final word. His victory is your victory. He is Risen indeed!
I pray that the power of Christ’s passion and the joy of His Resurrection fills you with joy and hope in Him.
Many blessings to you and those you love,
Rev Dr. Ryan Peterson
Vice President of Administration
Office of the President