Considering a serene escape in bustling New York City. The General Theological Seminary offers just that. Founded in 1817, it stands as the oldest Episcopal seminary. It is also the longest continuously operating seminary in the Anglican Communion.
The General Theological Seminary’s story began with a vision. Church leaders wanted a seminary serving the whole Episcopal Church. The seminary was chartered by the Episcopal Church’s General Convention. Its name reflects its founders’ vision. They wanted it to serve the entire church.
In 1819 Clement Clarke Moore played a pivotal role. He was a professor. He was also the author of “Twas the night before Christmas.” Moore donated a large parcel of land. It was an apple orchard. He stipulated that a seminary be built there.
The General Theological Seminary’s location in New York City proved advantageous. Its first home, East Building, was erected in 1827. West Building followed in 1836. It housed 60 students.
Dean Eugene Augustus Hoffman initiated an ambitious building program. The press dubbed it “Dean Hoffman’s Grand Design”. The Chapel of the Good Shepherd was central to this design. It became known as the “Jewel of Chelsea Square.” Its set of 15 tubular bells is the oldest extant in the country.
Worship is central to life at the General Theological Seminary. The community gathers in the Chapel of the Good Shepherd.
Over time, the General Theological Seminary broadened its vision. It now includes the ecumenical community. It also welcomes the Anglican Communion, New York City and the world. The General Theological Seminary has graduated over 7,000 men and women since 1822.
The General Theological Seminary’s campus has neo-Gothic buildings. These face onto a central quadrangle. This is in the style of English universities. This quadrangle is known as the Close.
The library is known as the St. Mark’s Library since the 1960s. It moved to a new facility in 2011. This was on the site of the former Sherrill Hall. The building was dedicated as the Christoph Keller, Jr. Library.
The library boasts ancient Bibles. It also holds English Bibles. The Ancient Bible Collection includes a Hebrew Bible from 1264. It also includes three tenth-century Gospels. One is decorated with colored miniatures. A complete Latin Bible from about 1250 is also held.
The General Theological Seminary owned a Gutenberg Bible. It was sold in 1978 for $2.2 million.
The General Theological Seminary sits in the heart of Chelsea. This area is known for its art galleries. The seminary’s Close is noted for its beauty. It provides a tranquil escape from the urban environment.
The General Theological Seminary is more than just a collection of buildings. It is a vibrant community. It is a place of learning. It is a place of worship. It is a place that has shaped leaders for the church. It continues to evolve. It adapts to meet the challenges of a changing world.
Today the General Theological Seminary continues its mission. It educates and forms leaders for the church. It embraces its history. It also embraces the future. The General Theological Seminary remains a vital institution. It serves the Episcopal Church and the wider world.