Date: November 21, 2025
It is the weekend before Thanksgiving, and much of the community is already thinking ahead to the holidays. However, many of our Faculty are preparing to travel to Boston, MA, for the major academic gatherings in the study of religion. The Society of Biblical Literature and the American Academy of Religion will convene there, drawing literally thousands of scholars from around the world.
It is a significant honor to deliver a paper at either the SBL or the AAR. I know that many of our colleagues are presenting, but because I am not aware of every single one, I hesitate to create a list. Suffice it to say, it is a great joy when scholars are recognized by their peers and invited to contribute to these conversations. It is also deeply gratifying that so many VTS colleagues are among those offering their work.
Most will be leaving today for Boston. So prayers for a safe journey, and may the days ahead be rich, energizing, and filled with meaningful engagement at this extraordinary annual gathering.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary