Carol Schreck is best described as a radiant light because she lived her life in such a way that the light of Christ shone through her. Carol had a wonderful presence of love that showed itself in the way she took a personal interest not only in the lives of her students but in their entire families, always remembering birthdays, praying and encouraging them through their struggles and finding ways to provide for them during times of need. It was not unusual to find Carol at your door with bags full of groceries or vegetables that she picked from her own garden or purchased from the local farmers’ market and sometimes, even with a bouquet of flowers, for no special reason. We, the Ragwans, often felt that we were special to Carol, until we realized that she treated all of her students and their families with an equal amount of love and care. 

Carol had a unique gift of presence. When you had a chance to converse with her, her undivided attention and deep sense of listening left you feeling known and understood in a way that was unique and immensely therapeutic. Carol was this way in the classroom too. She helped Rodney heal from unresolved grief, a grief that he had carried for some forty years after the loss of his mom at age 6. Amazingly, Rodney’s frequent headaches dissipated. She and Peter also took a personal interest in the lives of international students at Palmer Seminary, hosting various gatherings in their home which always included fun, games, laughter and a table full of delicious food. Their Christmas parties for international students and families included a warm fireplace with plenty of chairs and pillows, where many of us relaxed and shared stories. Carol hosted our family for our very first Thanksgiving here in the USA. She bought tickets forour children to enjoy their very first ski experience at the Poconos and drove Eva to her very first class at Eastern University, showing up with a bag full of stationary and goodies.

Upon the sad news of Carol’s death, an important question emerges: What can we do to ensure that Carol’s bright light continues to shine? In acknowledging the impact that Carol had upon the lives of seminary students, especially the international students, may we rise to fill the gap that her death has created so that her bright light continues to shine.