Silent Prayer in the Oratory will be hosted this term by the Rev. Professor Sarah Coakley every Wednesday evening at 5.15pm, beginning September 10 and continuing through December 17. This offering, supported by Associate Dean the Rev. Dr. Shawn Strout and encouraged by growing interest from students, parishioners of Immanuel, and members of several local […]
In one week, we will welcome the Rt. Rev. Dr. James Lule Kenyi from the Diocese of Kajo-Keji in the Episcopal Church of South Sudan to VTS—virtually. On September 16, 2025 at 12:45 pm EDT Bishop Kenyi will join us on Zoom to speak about his important work in the diocese of Kajo-Keji with peacebuilding […]
On Saturday, September 6, 2025, a significant event took place at the Virginia Theological Seminary (VTS) campus as descendants of African Americans who worked at the Seminary and board members broke ground for the VTS Reparations Memorial. The warm and dry weather, albeit a tad humid, set a perfect backdrop for this historic moment, marking […]
The Living Church competition is well known across the Episcopal Church. It is a wonderful way to honor the “life of the mind,” and over the years it has produced some remarkably thoughtful essays and perspectives. Today, I am delighted to share that two VTS students have taken first and second place in this competition. […]
From time to time, our staff must address problems that require urgent attention. Most of us begin the day with a full agenda, so it can be frustrating to have to rearrange everything because of a sudden issue that needs immediate resolution. When I am the one responsible for creating this revised agenda, I like […]
As it happened, I was unwell. I had an infection with a fever over one hundred degrees, so I had to leave my wonderful wife to host the annual SOCU dinner at the Deanery last Friday evening. Seventy-one people attended, including senior staff, some spouses, and children. Among them, of course, was my wife, Lesley […]
Welcome back to the VTS community as we begin a new academic year. The campus is alive again with familiar faces and new arrivals, filled with energy and anticipation. This is a time of renewal as classrooms open, conversations deepen, and the work of formation continues. As we settle in, let us honor the different […]
Some moments in ministry are beautifully bittersweet—filled with both joy and sadness. I experienced such a moment last week, when Dr. Lisa Kimball, during our regular one-on-one, shared her intention to retire from Virginia Theological Seminary as of July 31, 2026. After prayerful discernment, Lisa has decided her time as a faculty member is drawing […]
Recently, I had a conversation with a friend of the Seminary who wanted proof of systemic racism in America. He was not, for example, persuaded by the evidence that a higher percentage of African Americans die at the hands of law enforcement. As I listened, I paused—puzzled. Even at the level of basic education, there […]
Today is a special moment as the Lifelong Learning team gathers on campus. Much of their work happens remotely, so being face to face is a rare and welcome gift. It is wonderful to have everyone here—from those who manage the complexities of grant work to those who carry forward continuing education and keep our […]