The massive earthquake and tsunami that ravaged Japan last week, and the ongoing destruction that has ensued in recent days, is a tragedy of nearly incomprehensible proportions. My prayers are with those from our University who have been directly affected, as well as with the Japanese people as a whole.
At the time of the quake, two Notre Dame students were participating in our study abroad program in Nagoya. We are thankful that they are safe, and we are closely monitoring events to ensure their continued safety, as well as that of a third student who traveled to Japan for spring break.
For the Notre Dame students, faculty and alumni from Japan, I extend my deepest sympathies. Their country has been devastated and lives have been lost. They and their families are in my thoughts and prayers as they cope with both the current crisis and the challenging road to recovery in the days, months and years ahead.
When students return next week from Spring Break, we will have a Mass for the people of Japan, and there are initiatives planned on campus to lend additional support. More information will be forthcoming, but in the meantime, there are many organizations providing invaluable assistance, and I encourage you to consider contributing to their efforts.
— Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., Notre Dame president