Date: September 5, 2024
Last night, we had the first Deanery Evening of the new academic year. For those who are unfamiliar with a Deanery Evening, the idea is very simple. It is coffee and dessert at my home with a speaker. We gather at 7pm and then we build our plates of pastries, grab our coffee, and find a seat. Numbers are limited, partly because of space, but also to keep the conversation intimate. Then we have a distinctive world opened up by a speaker. Sometimes it is a rector of a large church who shares the challenge and imperative of stewardship; sometimes it is a theologian or bishop who has written an important book; sometimes it is a Native American activist journalist or a Muslim theologian exploring a particular theme; and sometimes it is a prison chaplain.
Last night, it was Chaplain Leanore Ortega Till. She spoke movingly about her work and ministry in a prison setting. She shared some stories and challenges. She opened up a new world to us all.
We aim for one Deanery Evening a month, although, as it happens, next month is an exception. On Wednesday October 2, we have Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, the Bishop of Washington DC; and on Thursday October 3, we have Dr. Vicky Baker reflect on the topic of “parenting and faith”. Do keep an eye on the Communique as these opportunities arise.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary