There is no doubt that the GTS close is just stunning. With sunshine coming through the trees, with the plants in full bloom, and with the shadows dancing on the grass, the close is beautiful. This is the moment when stepping out from 21st street into the close is just amazing.

On days like this, one cannot help thank God. Naturally, I know that the damp days, the drizzly days, and the snowy days are all part of divine providence. But these days remain a gift. One cannot help step out and marvel that one can in be in New York and, simultaneously, in a beautiful place.

Learning to say “thank you” to God for the gift of each day is a Christian obligation. It is true, however, some days are easier than others.

The Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D.
Dean and President of Virginia Theological Seminary and the President of The General Theological Seminary