Feature Story
Press Release: Official Statement from President Bonnie H. Cordon
Today President Bonnie H. Cordon issued the following statement on behalf of Southern Virginia University:
With tender hearts, we join so many around the world in remembering the life of President Russell M. Nelson.
I thank God that I was blessed to know him and to work closely with him. His life of service and devotion has touched countless souls, including mine, and I will forever hold deep gratitude and love for him.
As a university whose Christ-centered mission is closely aligned with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we unite our hearts and prayers with all who loved him. We honor President Nelson’s remarkable life of discipleship and the legacy he leaves as a valiant servant of God and a tireless advocate for peace.
Today our hearts are also heavy with grief as we learned of the senseless violence that took place during a sacred worship service of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Innocent lives were lost, others were wounded, and a house of God was desecrated by fire. We condemn such acts of hatred and violence in the strongest possible terms.
President Nelson recently reminded us that, “As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to be peacemakers.” His words feel especially urgent now: “As charity becomes part of our nature, we will lose the impulse to demean others. We will stop judging others. We will have charity for those from all walks of life.”
In his memory, and in solidarity with those who are mourning both of these devastating losses, may we recommit ourselves to the path of peace, love, and kindness. May we comfort the grieving, lift the brokenhearted, and honor God by treating one another as His children.