Seminarian Lay Committee

Close proximity to Virginia Seminary provides for a unique formation experience for everyone at Immanuel. 

Frequently seminarians will come to us as part of an internship, Field Education, or Contextual Ministry formation. A lay committee is convened for each seminarian to help guide and support them while at Immanuel.

The lay committee is established on an ad hoc basis and consists of three to seven members who are requested to serve by the clergy, as well as a representative from the Vestry.  

The purpose of the lay committee is twofold; to form someone who is called to specific, often ordained, ministry in the Church, and for the committee members themselves for grow as fellow pilgrims and disciples who share in common the joys and struggles of life and faith, deepening their own understanding about discerning the Holy Spirit's role in each of our lives.
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Over the years, Immanuel has had dozens of Seminarians preach and teach, and several have continued with us well after their official role has ended. This is a fabulous gift for the whole parish, to be able to get to know Episcopalians from all over the world and support them all as they grow into ministers in God’s church!