Jesus is the Difference!

Introductory Reflection by XHS President, Chris McCarville (R97) for Xavier Foundation's Winter 2020 Common Thread Newsletter

Having served as a theology teacher at Xavier from 2002-2008 (and football coach from 1998-2008), I often refer to my tenure as president as my second “tour of duty” at our school. And let me tell you, I couldn’t be enjoying it more! For sure, the second time around has brought with it a different perspective. And that new perspective brings an even deeper appreciation for Xavier and Catholic education. 

Perhaps what strikes me the most when I reflect on my second time around is how much society has changed. Social media, mobile devices and societal expectations are just a few examples. We even live in a world where my Chicago Cubs are recent World Series champions! Simply stated, the world is very different in 2020 compared to when I left in 2008.

Perhaps what saddens me the most when I look at our world today is to see how much our society seems to push Jesus further away. Laws are passed with no regard for Jesus. Prayer is increasingly deemed as an “inappropriate” activity for sectors of our society. And seemingly more and more, behavior contrary to our Lord’s expectations is accepted. It seems in our world today, Jesus increasingly (and sadly), is not welcome. 

Something that has also changed since I last worked at Xavier is I married a wonderful woman, my wife Erica. Together, we have two young children; the youngest born this past January. For sure, my wife and children have made my life better. Our family is beyond blessed. 

When considering a society that is increasingly contrary to Jesus and then further considering our two children, it’s made us pause and reflect. What kind of a world and environment do we want them to grow up in? For us, a world where Jesus is welcomed as much as possible is a priority. 

My second “tour of duty” at Xavier brings an even greater appreciation for what our school offers. I’m not sure I fully appreciated a high school experience centered on Jesus in 2008 the way I do today. My world has changed over the last 12 years and for sure, so has the world around me. Xavier is the only high school in Cedar Rapids that promotes, welcomes and is centered on Jesus and instilling Catholic values. That atmosphere is needed today more than ever. 

May God continue to bless the Xavier Saints of today and their life-long journey with Christ. May Xavier always be a place where Jesus is welcomed not only for our students today, but most certainly for those to come.