Why Convocation Matters

One of God's great gifts to humanity is time, with its inherent rhythms. With their ebb and flow, these rhythms help us mark endings and new beginnings. At New Saint Andrews College, we eagerly anticipate these moments, recognizing them as opportunities to reflect on God’s goodness, celebrate our successes, and look forward to what lies ahead. One such occasion is convocation, which marks the beginning of each academic year, as NSA formally welcomes new students into its community.

The induction of new students at NSA is more than a simple admission process. It is the beginning of an enculturation into the principles of truth, beauty, and goodness—values that are central to the college’s mission. The formal signing of a book by each student, in the presence of the college’s board, faculty, staff, and other witnesses, is a symbolic act. This gesture signifies a personal commitment to the college’s ideals and the pursuit of virtue. Far from being a mere procedural step, it is a moment where students publicly affirm their readiness to engage in the serious work of learning and culture-building.

The signing of this book is no trivial affair. It marks the initiation of students into the process of becoming Christlike, virtuous, lifelong learners who view the world as a mission field to conquer for Christ. Through the rigors of mentorship, study, artistry, critical thinking, and persuasive discourse, students learn to subdue themselves and are equipped to thrive joyfully in the face of chaos. By signing the book, they enlist in the perilous yet noble task of fighting dragons and building castles, of smashing idols and erecting cathedrals, and of piercing the darkness with the light of truth. They formally commit to learning how to bring all things under the triumphant Lordship of Christ.

Students enlist in the perilous yet noble task of fighting dragons and building castles, of smashing idols and erecting cathedrals, and of piercing the darkness with the light of truth.

This year’s convocation address by Dr. Joe Rigney provided a clear articulation of the college’s educational philosophy. Drawing on Psalm 111, Dr. Rigney described Christian education as the joyful study of God’s works, with the ultimate goal of transformation into the image of Christ. His remarks emphasized the importance of approaching learning with both reverence and delight, advocating for a wisdom that does not merely inform but transforms.

The challenging assignments presented to students at convocation are intentionally designed to set the standard for excellence. Culture-building is not for the faint of heart, the slothful, or the vain. It is for those willing to face the heat of fire-breathing dragons, to endure bruised hands as they are trained for war, and to embrace death in order to rise victorious. Convocation sets these expectations with clarity and purpose, yet it also carries a tone of encouragement, instilling in students the belief that success is within their grasp.

Culture-building is not for the faint of heart, the slothful, or the vain. It is for those willing to face the heat of fire-breathing dragons, to endure bruised hands as they are trained for war, and to embrace death in order to rise victorious.

This year’s convocation also marked a milestone for New Saint Andrews College, as it celebrated its thirtieth anniversary. The incoming class represents the thirtieth group of students to matriculate at the college, underscoring three decades of commitment to the principles of Christian education. As the college reflects on its history, it also looks forward with gratitude for the opportunities that lie ahead, confident in God’s guiding hand of Providence.