Date: September 22, 2025
The bonds that connect Virginia Theological Seminary to the global Anglican Communion are beautifully exemplified when our alumni return to campus as distinguished church leaders. Today I am thrilled to welcome back the Rt. Revd. Dr. James Barnaba Almasi ‘03, (H) ‘15, Bishop of Masasi in the Anglican Church of Tanzania, who arrives today for a 3 week sabbatical organized by the Center for Anglican Communion Studies.
We eagerly anticipate Bishop Almasi’s forum presentation on September 23 (12:45 PM in the Lettie Pate Evans Room, Addison Academic Center; register here), when he will discuss his ministry addressing poverty through education and advocacy. We are also delighted that Bp. Almasi will preach in Immanuel Chapel on Wednesday, October 8.
Since his consecration as Bishop of Masasi in September 2014, Bishop Almasi has brought considerable experience to his episcopal ministry. His diverse background includes serving as Principal of St. Cyprian’s Theological College, Cathedral Provost in multiple dioceses, and Director of Youth and Evangelism. His commitment to building church capacity in evangelism, advocacy, and socio-economic development reflects the kind of holistic ministry that VTS seeks to nurture in all its graduates.
Join me in giving Bishop Almasi a heartfelt VTS “welcome home” as he returns to the community that helped shape his remarkable journey of faithful service.
The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and President of The General Theological Seminary