Date: October 13, 2026
Today we have the convocation lectures on the theme of artificial intelligence. We will hear from two contrasting voices, one skeptical and one affirmative.
From the skeptical end of the spectrum, we have the Rev. Emily Garcia. She came to prominence as a result of her campaign to encourage clergy to promise never to use AI in sermons.
At the more affirmative end of the spectrum, we will have a lecture by the Rev. Dr. Michael DeLashmutt. He will argue that AI can, in all sorts of ways, be a valuable instrument for effective ministry.
The day will conclude with the convocation evening song. I’m very conscious that this is an important day. AI is a very present reality, and we need wisdom to discern how best it can be used. That’s the goal of the program today. If you’re able, do please come to these lectures and start your own discernment about how best you can and should us this technology.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and President of The General Theological Seminary