Today was the first praise chapel. I always get a bit choked up when I hear everyone singing. Although I always look forward to Fridays when we sing together, I am never fully prepared by the beauty of the voices and the obvious spirit of the students engaged in praising their God. It puts a lump in my throat and often a tear in my eyes. Luckily, we turn the lights out and I can fully feel the experience without embarrassment.

Last night we were blessed to host the new students for the annual president's cookout. LaRee and I are so impressed with the new students God has blessed us with. Now starts the long process of trying to learn all their names. As usual, we made several mistakes for those we have met before, but they are gracious in correcting us. It is interesting to put a face with the name of students called during the summer and to reacquaint with some who made campus visits last year. Of course, they all expect me to remember the individual conversation which is beyond the capacity of my memory. I appreciate that they are all so gracious in forgiving my lack of recall for all those details. However, we will soon get to know each other on a more personal level and become the York College family which recreates and renews each and every year.