Date: February 24, 2026
Yesterday morning as I peered out of the kitchen window, I felt exhausted. “More snow, Lord”, I uttered, “really?” I was conscious that the Facilities team were already working hard to create space so the community could get to class, chapel, and breakfast (lunch came later). Reluctantly, I made my way to the Chapel for worship.
We are sitting together in one transept. So, I found a seat and settled in. Now I always enjoy the senior sermon. Sometimes prophetic, sometimes more meditative, sometimes careful exegesis, sometimes more whimsical – there is plenty of variety when it comes to the senior sermon. Yesterday Sarah Forti was our preacher. And it was just the word I needed to hear. Delightful connections were made across the drama of the Gospel from the request by Mrs. Zebedee, to the Transfiguration, the cross, to an invitation to really meet people where their need is felt most acutely. It was delightful.
I am ready for Spring. But first we need to walk through Lent. And in Lent, Chapel worship is a gift. I started the day feeling weary; after chapel, I was feeling ready to face the day.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary.Â