Date: September 24, 2024
Just as we learn the rhythm of these initial weeks, the Seminary decides to interrupt that rhythm with a day of quiet. Traditionally, after the morning meditation by Bishop Mark Stevenson, we go into silence until the end of the Eucharist in the afternoon. Lunch should be taken in silence; we may speak to the stranger, but we should not speak to each other. The idea is a day when we allow God to be our primary conversation partner.
Now I have learned over the years that these high expectations are rarely attained. And we have relaxed those expectations: in fact, I approved last week a musical space, which will certainly not be “silent”. But I am hoping that everyone will have more quiet in their lives than normal. And I hope that your praying will be deeper and more concentrated.
My first silent retreat was when I was an undergraduate at King’s College London. I went with a group of students to “Little Gidding” (it is now a place we visit on the VTS pilgrimage). I remember just how hard it was to keep silent. But I also remember just how important it was. It was, I think, a key moment when God spoke to me and indicated that priesthood might be part of my future. (A call I resisted for many years.) So, do, please, give God space today.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary