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Virginia Theological Seminary announces the opening of the Center for Liturgy and Music (CLM) at VTS. The Center exists to serve clergy and musicians by helping them to discover resources and to develop skills in liturgy, music and preaching.
“The future of the Episcopal Church in the U.S. depends on high quality liturgical and musical experience,” said the Very Rev. Ian S. Markham, Ph.D., dean and president of Virginia Theological Seminary. “Whether it’s a big church or a small church, liturgy and music need to be done with care and attention. As a service to congregations, we are now offering a consultancy service and rich website resources to support liturgical and musical excellence.”
The premise for this new venture is that vibrant and engaging liturgical practices, including diverse, energetic music and passionate, effective preaching are the driving force of a vital parish.
“As I entered the church where leaders from congregations in southern Maryland had gathered, I heard something we can't ever get enough of—joyful singing!” said the Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, bishop of Washington. “It was a transformative moment for the diocese. I commend the Center for Liturgy and Music to all churches and dioceses that long to hear their people sing.”
The Center will provide information, instruction and inspiration that will create the desire in leaders to grow beyond their current capacity via:
• A website providing quick access to resources (www.liturgyandmusic.com)
• A "Dear Ambrose" column for questions
• An electronic newsletter
• Conferences and workshops in the field and on-site
• Consultations with parishes either in person or via Skype
• Links with other groups who seek to enhance music and liturgy, i.e. the Leadership Program for Musicians, North American Academy of Liturgy, the Mentoring Program of the Association of Anglican Musicians, Episcopal Preaching Foundation
• Distance learning in partnership with the Leadership Program for Musicians
• Presentations at diocesan conventions or other diocesan gatherings
• Exposure to models of effective music and liturgy in diverse styles and languages
• Master classes in preaching
Markham continued: “I’m proud of this new initiative. The Episcopal Church needs it, and VTS stands ready to provide it.”
For more information about the Center’s offerings, please contact Ellen Johnston, program coordinator for the Center of Liturgy and Music, by phone at 703-461-1792 or by email at
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