Dr. Cheryl A. McConnell, president of Saint Joseph’s University, visited The Children’s School at Saint John’s in Bala Cynwyd for an Apr. 27 story time. Mary Brown reported the event in the Main Line Times & Suburban.

McConnell’s appearance was made extra-special for all by the inclusion of a reading of McConnell’s favorite children’s book, I Love You THIS Much, by Lynn Hodges and Sue Buchanan.

The book is based on Ephesians 3:18: “How wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.” It is a lullaby of deep affection for young and old.

While reading the story, each time McConnell reached the repeated refrain, I Love You THIS Much, she spread her arms in a sweeping motion to show the expanse of her affection.

The kids and their teachers then started spreading their arms in sync with McConnell and giggled all together “I love you this much,” to the joy of all.

McConnell is Saint Joseph’s University’s 29th — and first female — president.

Read more about the visit in the Main Line Times & Suburban.

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Albeit perhaps not as animated as McConnell’s version, here’s a reading of I Love You THIS Much.