"Ladies and Gentlemen, start your engines!" The start of HPU's fall semester might not be an auto race, but if it were I suppose these words suggest the lazy days of summer are over and the time to get back in the groove is upon us. Let me add another voice to welcome you to the lively atmosphere of Hawai'i Pacific University.

I hope you are able to negotiate the challenges of adjusting to university life with grace and poise. If not, join the club. Most of us undergo a certain amount of existential angst when embarking upon a new year.

In addition to the great beaches, Honolulu offers a wealth of diversity to keep your spiritual edge sharp. Come by my office (UB 1506, phone 544-9394) anytime, and I will be happy to connect you with the closet house of worship of your faith. In addition, there is an active Roman Catholic Student Association and an HPU Christian Fellowship group on campus ready to welcome you and help you find a meaningful place in the HPU community. And every Wednesday from noon to 12:30 pm there is an informal non-denominational chapel service at Warmer Auditorium (top floor of the library). All are invited to share a half-hour of song and inspiration led by student leaders and myself. (Can you play the guitar? Please bring it.)

With the Lord's strength any hurdle can be overcome. Have a great year!