Date: May 15, 2023
I do hope everyone is enjoying the glow of a fabulous set of events last week. The Board meetings went well. The attendance was high; and the spirit among Board members was positive. The food and meals by Meriwether Godsey were excellent. And the rain cleared up in time for the Service of the Mission of the Church and for Commencement. Both services went really well. The music was divine; the services were well rehearsed; and the work that needed to happen did happen.
Our Board Chair, Dr. David Charlton, observed that these occasions are powerful reminders as to why this is all worthwhile. We are doing important work. These graduates will make a difference to the future of the Church. As one watched the hugs and the tears, one could see the depth of connection that has formed among these students and their eagerness to serve the Church.
To literally list all those who made last week a success would be impossibly long. So, instead, please allow me to send a deep and heart-felt thank you to all those who worked so hard last week. Your labor was appreciated; and the result was extraordinary.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary