The aftermath of the violent wind of Hurricane Ike is still with us — and we are still without electricity on the Southern Seminary and Boyce College campus.  We are in great shape otherwise.  All we need is electricity.

We cannot operate the class schedule without electric power.  Safety concerns and practicalities make this a fact with which we have to deal.

We have so much for which we should be thankful.  No one on campus was hurt by the winds.  No structural damage to the buildings was suffered.  Everything can quickly be put back into order . . . but with the electric power back on, and not before.

The Executive Cabinet met Monday afternoon, as soon as a full report on our status was available.  After discussing all options, we decided to cancel classes for the entire week.  Since the local authorities are telling us to expect several days without power, we felt that we should give advance notice of the class cancellation in order to let students and families make plans.

Right after the Executive Cabinet meeting, we called for a gathering of the seminary family on the lawn.  The gathering was, to our knowledge, unprecedented.  It worked, and we were able to get the word out quickly.

Students were asked to let seminary or college officials know about their plans.  We want to be able to take care of the needs of students who are remaining on the campus — and this appears to be the majority of students.

We are working hard to serve meals and are having a great time making the most of all this.  I greatly appreciate the spirit on the campus — both among students and staff leadership.  We are, as they say, making a memory.

Employees are asked to be available on an as-needed basis and to report to work on a normal schedule as soon as power is restored.  For now, contact your supervisor for instructions.  Thanks to all for making so many good things happen.  In coming days, we will share special thanks to several who are giving incredible service during these days.

We are also doing everything within our power to keep the Southern Seminary/Boyce College family fully informed.  Thanks for doing your part.

We will be back to our class schedule starting Monday.  In the unlikely event that the electricity is not restored, classes will be held in an alternative location, to be announced.  We fully expect to be back in session on the campus by Monday.

Again, there is so much for which we are thankful.  We are also looking to minister to the Louisville community during these days, and several student groups are already working with senior adults and others in need of assistance.  Let’s make sure Louisville knows and sees our commitment to show the love of Christ in this frustrating time, when so many of our neighbors are also without power.

Remember, if you have a need, let someone know.  We will do everything we can to help.  In the meantime, enjoy an unexpected break in the schedule.

We have been asked if this means that the regularly scheduled Fall Reading Days are canceled.  They are not.  We will resume the regular Fall Academic Schedule on Monday.

Photo credit: Laura Wagner