Date: January 10, 2025
We gathered as Deans from Sunday through Tuesday this week. I made my way home after two canceled trains late on Tuesday night. Wednesday was my first chance to participate with the GTS students in worship. It was a joy to gather with them in south transept, which was set out collegiate style.
The Council of Deans was a good meeting. Perhaps one of the best in my seventeen years of attending these meetings. We had some very thoughtful bishops join us on Monday for a day of reflection and analysis. And then our new Presiding Bishop (an alumnus of VTS) joined us on Tuesday to talk about theological education. His diagnosis and openness to radical suggestions were inspiring. He is ready to make necessary changes.
The highlight for me is always the sharing among the Deans on the Sunday night. I find this moment very moving. The ministry of leadership in theological education is not easy. And I admired my colleagues as they reflected on the challenges they are facing.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary.