Date: August 20, 2026
I hesitate to advertise things too far in advance, but the start of the semester has lots of cool things going on. I alluded to the Ecumenical and Interfaith conference yesterday. Today I want to highlight the Have Mercy Book Launch on September 1, 2026. This is not simply a very fine collection of essays that address our political moment, but it is also an occasion to honor our alum – twice over – Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde. Next time you are walking around the campus, do pause on Deanery Drive, right behind the Chapel Garden, at the stunning sculpture that honors the sermon she delivered on January 21, 2025.
For the Board of the Seminary, this sermon was a model. It was completely Biblical, drenched in allusions to Micah and Luke. It was completely respectful. There was no abuse or hectoring. She spoke ‘truth to power’ in a way that all of us can learn from.
Bishop Budde will attend this momentous occasion. We are delighted she is coming. Do mark your calendars now.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary.Â