Crossin Farewell--Friends: As readers of this blog know, I am coming to the end of my time as executive director of the Consortium. I expect that my successor will be named in May. There are a few activities that I will be pursuing in the next month--before I leave on May 31st. I think that now is time to end my blogging. The Consortium website www.washtheocon.org will be announcing the new director and other important matters. I have enjoyed sharing my musing over coffee during the last several years. In closing let me encourage you in your efforts for Christian Unity and Christian-Muslim Dialogue. Peace, John

Meeting with Folks---Friends: A major part of my day has been devoted to meeting with folks related to the Consortium. This has been taking place for 13 years. Now I am making my 'final rounds' as executive director, saying some good-by's. I will finish on May 31st. Peace, John

40th Anniversary--Independent Collaborative Institutions--As I mentioned in my address [which will be posted today], the Consortium has always been a group of independent institutions--all quite unique. The Group is characterized by its commitment to work together. Last Monday there were many, many representatives of these institutions present. To me this is another sign that the collaborative spirit is strong. Peace, John

40th Anniversary Celebration--Student Board--There was a significant attendance of present and former Student Board members at the Anniversary Celebration on Monday. They have been having a majoor impact on the Consortium and local ecumenism. I've noticed at this event and others that the Student Board members love to 'network' and are usually the last to leave. I admire their friendship and dedication. Peace, John

40th Anniversary Celebration--Friends: Last evening 140+ Friends of the Consortium and representatives of the Consortium Institutions gathered for the 40th Anniversary Celebration at Dominican House. It was a very enjoyable evening. Many people arrived early and some stayed late. I was honored to receive the Consortium Service Award from our Board Chair, Ambassador Clyde Taylor. The text of my 40th Anniversary Lecture will appear shortly on our Website www.washtheocon.org I found the evening gratifying and in some ways overwhelming. Peace, John

40th Anniversary Celebration Today--I just finished the final run-through of my speech for the Anniversary Reception this evening. Lots of folks are coming. It should be fun! Peace, John

Focolare 50th Anniversary-- Friends--Last night at Catholic University a muliethnic, multiracial community of 200+gathered. This was the Anniversary celebration of the Focolare movement--a Catholic lay movement with an emphasis on basic gospel values, a spirituality of unity and a commitment to loving all. The member dedicate themselves to unity--ecumenical and interreligious. It was like a family gathering--a lot of sharing and joy. Peace, John

Consortium as Ministry Friends: As I reflect on my 13 year term, I see that I have been of service in people's discernment. Occasionally members of Consortium faculties, administrations, or Consortium students have shared with me more deeply about their spiritual journey. I always try to listen intently. I sometimes offer a comment or an observation which I hope will be beneficial. The depth of sharing and the personal commitment to the gospel have left a lasting impression on me. Peace, John

40th Anniversary Celebration Friends: The Consortium celebration is next Monday evening at 6:00. I have begun to put my thoughts on paper--I am the speaker for the Anniversary Celebration. Thus, I have been reviewing some Consortium Bulletins from the '70s. They are fascinating. There were lots of things going on then. And some of the questions being discussed 40 years ago are still being discussed. Peace, John

Conversations Friends: I have been blessed to be part of many meal-time conversations over the last 13 years. Yesterday was a fine one. Dr. Charles Jones of CUA and Dr. Richard Jones [Consortium Alwani Scholar] talked about many things over lunch yesterday. Chuck always teaches me something about Buddhism; Richard about Islam. Yesterday I also learned a little more about the dialogue of Science and Religion. This nourishment for the mind has been an important part of my Consortium Experience. Peace, John