Date: August 4, 2026
Lifelong Learning’s Launching into Ministry (LiM) program supports Virginia Theological Seminary students in the first years of spiritual leadership following graduation. It’s a time defined by facing new challenges and new joys as graduates move (quickly!) from the abstract theory of the classroom to lived practice in a parish or other ministry context.Â
The support LiM facilitates comes primarily through relationships: one-on-one with a mentor and throughout the program year with fellow LiM participants. And, thanks to collaboration within our Lifelong Learning team, Launching has added another component of learning and support: the community of Forma, the network for Christian formation. As of spring 2026, all Launching into Ministry participants also automatically become Forma members, with access not only to the Forma online space (conversations, focus groups, and interactive offerings) and resource library, but also a monthly newsletter, programs, and the opportunity to participate in Forma’s annual conference. Â
Launching members benefit from other resources available within the Lifelong Learning ecosystem: everyone who joins the program is given a subscription to the online publication Building Faith as well as to the monthly Lifelong Learning newsletter.Â
We’ve designed Launching into Ministry to inspire, focus, and guide VTS graduates as they develop learning goals and grow in their vocation.  The addition of these Lifelong Learning-based resources broadens our support of them!
The Rev. Jenni Ovenstone, VTS ’03, M.Div.
Program Director, Launching into MinistryÂ