“Beautiful and breathtaking” . . . these were the words used by Deannah Baesel, Assistant Manager of Advancement Events, to describe Chris Tomlin in concert at the Gibson Amphitheatre at  Universal Studios, Hollywood, on Saturday, February 24. 

Two hundred alumni and friends of the University came out to experience Tomlin’s “Hello, Love” tour, with this particular concert being recorded for a live DVD, the first in Tomlin’s career. 

The evening held some great surprises for those attending with the Biola group, the first being an unexpected visit from President Barry H. Corey at the special Biola alumni table.  Selected alumni were also given the opportunity for personal interaction with Chris Tomlin, another surprise element of the evening.  Baesel said, “A unique part of this event was the Meet and Greet passes we were able to give some of our alumni.  They got to have some personal time with Chris Tomlin, and I know that made it an event to remember!” Matt and Debbie Goegline, who were among those who met Chris, said, “Thank you for the backstage passes.  My family LOVED meeting Chris and Israel and taking pictures with them.”

 The Goeglines added, “Thank you so much for organizing the Chris Tomlin concert.  My family and 40 of us total really enjoyed the concert.  It was more like an amazing worship service with 5ooo people singing and making praise to the Lord.  I especially loved with Chris asked the whole crowd to sing and he just listened . . . INCREDIBLE!!”

Baesel was also enthusiastic about the opportunity of connecting with alumni as a result of the event.  “Meeting our alumni is always my favorite part of these events.  It’s great to put a face to the names and to begin to build relationships with other Biola graduates,” she said.