Category: Dean’s Commentary

Welcome, Bishop Almasi

The bonds that connect Virginia Theological Seminary to the global Anglican Communion are beautifully exemplified when our alumni return to campus as distinguished church leaders. Today I am thrilled to welcome back the Rt. Revd. Dr. James Barnaba Almasi ‘03, (H) ‘15, Bishop of Masasi in the Anglican Church of Tanzania, who arrives today for […]

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Quiet Day, Wednesday, September 24th

Every semester at Virginia Theological Seminary we set aside a day for prayerful reflection. This Quiet Day offers a pause in the busyness of classes, contextual ministry, activities on and off campus, and the steady hum of everyday life. Our tradition affirms in the practice of sabbath that even God, the Creator of all that […]

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Today is VTS Giving Day

Giving Day is a joyful moment in the life of our community. Each gift made today carries extra impact thanks to a matching gift from an anonymous donor. Every contribution, no matter the size, strengthens the mission we share. This year’s theme is “Who Inspired You?” Each of us can point to someone whose faith, […]

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Lease with Vanderbilt University

Yesterday I received confirmation that the lease agreement with Vanderbilt University has officially closed — a truly pivotal moment in our ongoing journey of affiliation with The General Theological Seminary (GTS). This is an occasion worth pausing to reflect upon, as it represents a historic step forward for theological education in the Episcopal Church. Two […]

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Spiritual Direction

Today I have Spiritual Direction with the Rev. Martin Smith—a rhythm that has been a steady part of my life since 2007. These sessions are a sacred pause in the busyness of ministry, a time to look at my life honestly through the lens of prayer and faithfulness to the Gospel. It is a space […]

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New York Polyphony

On Tuesday, September 16, we are honored to welcome New York Polyphony to Immanuel Chapel for an evening of extraordinary music. This acclaimed vocal chamber ensemble is known for its brilliant interpretations of works ranging from Gregorian chant to contemporary commissions, with a special focus on music of the 12th to 17th centuries. Their GRAMMY-nominated […]

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Who Inspires You?

Each year, our community comes together around Virginia Theological Seminary’s Giving Day. This is more than just a moment to raise support; it is an opportunity to remember that we are bound together by faith, gratitude, and the stories of those who have shaped us. Our theme this year is “Who Inspired You?” It is […]

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VTS and the United Nations Report

Over the past two weeks, our reparations work has drawn significant attention. First, the announcement of the groundbreaking for the Memorial sparked some unpleasant commentary on Facebook. Because of this increased attention, Senior Vice President Burridge reports that more than 15,000 people viewed the announcement. She also worked diligently to remove posts containing expletives and […]

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Silent Prayer Starting Tonight

Silent Prayer in the Oratory will be hosted this term by the Rev. Professor Sarah Coakley every Wednesday evening at 5.15pm, beginning September 10 and continuing through December 17. This offering, supported by Associate Dean the Rev. Dr. Shawn Strout and encouraged by growing interest from students, parishioners of Immanuel, and members of several local […]

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Support South Sudan on Tuesday, September 16th

In one week, we will welcome the Rt. Rev. Dr. James Lule Kenyi from the Diocese of Kajo-Keji in the Episcopal Church of South Sudan to VTS—virtually.   On September 16, 2025 at 12:45 pm EDT Bishop Kenyi will join us on Zoom to speak about his important work in the diocese of Kajo-Keji with peacebuilding […]

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