Date: October 15, 2025
It has been a rich and memorable Convocation. Mr. David French offered a compelling framework for understanding our current polarization, presenting three key concepts that illuminate the roots of division in our public life. He then invited us toward an imaginative way forward—one that involves seeking genuine friendships across the divide and rediscovering shared purpose.
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde followed with a moving and deeply thoughtful reflection on contagious courage. Her words challenged us to consider how courage can spread through communities of faith, inspiring others to act with integrity and love even in difficult times. The Rev. Dr. Ruthanna Hooke, in turn, articulated the central thesis of her life’s work: that preaching arises from an embodied person, and that this embodiment carries profound theological meaning for how the Word is proclaimed.
Our Convocation concluded with a practical and compelling panel discussion that translated these ideas into ministry practice, and with a stirring sermon from the Rev. Kathy Walker at the Convocation Evensong. Her preaching was both inspiring and grounding, inviting us to engage appropriately with the moment we are in. If you missed any of these remarkable presentations, you can revisit them on our YouTube channel.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary.