Date: September 25, 2026
In the end, the purpose of Seminary is to form people of authentic faith. We cannot encourage others to pray if we do not pray ourselves. That is why every year we create space for a Quiet Day: a day deliberately set apart from the ordinary rhythms of classes, meetings, and activity. In a season when so many of us are surrounded by noise, notifications, and devices, Quiet Day invites us to attend again to the eternal – and to allow the God who loves us to wrap the divine love around us.
Our Fall Quiet Day is Wednesday, September 30. There will be no classes or co-curricular activities. The day begins with Morning Prayer at 8:15 a.m. and concludes with Holy Eucharist at 5:15 p.m. We are delighted to welcome the Rt. Rev. Carrie Schofield-Broadbent, Bishop of Maryland, who will offer the morning reflection and preach at the Eucharist. Noonday Prayer, spiritual direction, and the Rite of Reconciliation will also be available.
Quiet Day is a normal working day for staff, so please be gracious to those who greet you. Silence will be observed during lunch in the Refectory, and students may wear cassocks if they wish. I hope you will enter fully into this gift of prayer, rest, sabbath, and renewed attention to God.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary.