Date: October 21, 2025
Communication is always a challenge in institutions. We have the Communiqué and the daily Commentary, yet inevitably there are still questions that arise among students. Why exactly is the “all-gender restroom” simply a converted men’s restroom? Wouldn’t it be better if the space were reconfigured into proper stalls? (Thank you, JARS.) Or is the Seminary responding appropriately to student concerns about safety and the presence of law enforcement authorities? With this in mind, I will be available at 12:30 p.m. today in Scott Lounge.
If you are able, please grab a plate of food and join the conversation over lunch. And if you have a morning class, don’t worry—I’ll conclude in good time for you to get lunch before your next commitment.
My constant prayer remains, “Lord, may I get this work right.” Many decisions are finely balanced, with strong and good alternatives to weigh carefully. And yes, at times I make mistakes. So, a conversation where some of the questions may be critical (though not too critical, please) is always welcome.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary.