In my two years here at Wesley, I have come to celebrate this infectious and generous spirit because it bears witness to how formative communities shape who we are called to be in an ever-changing world. 

Community is vital for our sense of belonging, and even in my brief time with Wesley students and the wider W&M campus, I can think of no better image than one we presently embody: a crowded table.

You may know the image from the popular song, but we at Wesley have come to embrace the concrete reality of what this means in practice. A crowded table is one overflowing with grace and God’s abundant, radical love. It is a table of God’s beloved who share life’s joys, cry the world’s tears, and give hope to a world so desperately in need of it. 

In many ways, Wesley has a legacy of a crowded table, and I do not doubt that for many of you, there was always a seat for you during your time here. This year alone, we have had a full house of residents, hosted several fascinating guest speakers, and taken steps to improve the house's well-being. And in a few short days, we will hand out our infamous tacos in culmination of the last day of class! No matter who comes through our doors and no matter who you are, the table is set. What a beautiful, unchanging gift!

People come and go, and different people can remember certain chapters of their lives on campus. Still, the Wesley House remains a beacon in our community, living up to its reputation as home, both literally and spiritually.

I invite you to join me today in gratitude for the ways Wesley has and continues to nurture a new generation of college student. May our table grow ever more crowded!

Grace and peace,
Rev. Dr. Ryan LaRock