Dear Wesley Alums!

I imagine that sentence may take you back to the day you arrived at W&M and the many feelings that were part of that big day. For more than 20 years, move-in also involved me trying to greet many of you in your new space, and many of you hosting our much-appreciated lemonade and cookie stands on hot August days.

A lot has changed over the years at W&M and Wesley. The lemonade and cookie stands were a casualty of COVID; and this year’s new students will be welcomed by Rev. Ryan LaRock, our Wesley campus minister. In addition, there will be more religious diversity than when many of you were students; and many more students will claim to have no religious affiliation.

But there are constants that remain: the student leadership have written personal notes to students identifying as United Methodist; Wesley will be there, as always, to welcome one and all regardless of where they are on their faith journey; it will still be a safe place to question and grow in faith and discipleship; worship will be offered and lively discussions will take place; service to others will be a priority; talents will be celebrated, and leaders will emerge, and new skills will be discovered as a new generation emerges to be a blessing to the world; and there will be a community of care, friendship, and faith like the one you found as a student.

As this new batch of students begins their adventure, I hope you will join me in praying for them, their families, and for an awareness that God is present and can be a transforming presence in their lives.

In addition to your prayers, I also invite you to make a gift to Wesley as it begins this new year of ministry. In this changing world, and as denominational support for campus ministry lessens, your support, interest, and gifts are more needed than ever. 

Beloved, it was my great privilege to walk the Jesus Way with you for 22 years; you continue to be a great source of joy to my family and me as we remember with gratitude the many ways you blessed our lives. As this new year begins may it also be a source of blessing to those who may learn to call Wesley home.

Grace and peace,
David Hindman