VTS Press has experienced a remarkable transformation. Before the arrival of the Rev. Christopher Poore, its publications reflected the best efforts of dedicated amateur colleagues at Virginia Theological Seminary. Their work was important and heartfelt, though uneven—some books carried real substance, while others showed the limits of resources and experience. That season laid a foundation, […]
During the height of the pandemic, when fear and isolation weighed heavily, it was Senior Vice President Jacqui Ballou who first introduced me to the original UK version of The Blessing. Drawn from Numbers 6:24-27, its words became more than music—they were a prayer of comfort and peace in uncertain times. For people confined to […]
The work of chronicling the story of our chapel is unfinished business—one that calls for the combined commitment of those who lived its creation firsthand. It is both a privilege and a responsibility to join my esteemed recently retired colleagues, Ms. Linda Dienno and the Rev. Dr. Barney Hawkins, to bring our long-contemplated book project […]
Jenn Baker, Program Coordinator for Doctoral Programs and Education Technologist for Academic Affairs at Virginia Theological Seminary, brings both heart and skill to everything she does. She guides the Doctoral Programs with grace and steadiness, ensuring they flourish year after year. Under her care, the Doctor of Ministry offerings have grown into rich, well-organized experiences […]
Dr. Stephen Cook’s Instagram is a refreshing gift for those seeking to draw closer to the Old Testament as it speaks through the Church’s Lectionary. His short reels are more than lessons—they are windows into the living Word, crafted with clarity and reverence. With each post, he makes the ancient stories come alive, revealing their […]
The Rev. Janiece Williams joins the Virginia Theological Seminary (VTS) this academic year as a visiting professor, bringing her expertise in homiletics to the classroom. Her academic journey has taken her to Vanderbilt University, where she is currently ABD (All But Dissertation), indicating the depth of her scholarly engagement in homiletics. Rev. Williams’ commitment to […]
I am in Los Angeles this week with Senior Vice President Nicky Burridge, who oversees Advancement and Communications. This visit is a wonderful opportunity for me to connect with members of our extended Seminary family here on the West Coast. I am looking forward to spending time with friends and supporters who have been part […]
Sometimes I get an email and I found my mind going in a variety of directions. So, yesterday, Gabe Oakes explained that despite reminders the Flamingo is not being respected by the community. Even with repeated appeals, the spigot is not being turned off, the hot water is being drained, and trash is not being […]
Back in the Spring, I asked the Communications department to give the Seminary Covenant appropriate prominence on our front page of the website. I did so because in an age when DEI has suddenly become inappropriate and even wrong, I wanted our witness to be clear. And, given its prominence I listened to those words […]
The summer commentaries are amazing. Ms Kimberly Dunn made me tear up as I read her moving journey. I was in awe of Ms. Juanita Sanchez as she documented the hard work of the team in the Butterfly House as they pursue degrees. I enjoyed the music video that was part of the commentary written […]