MSP User Spotlight: Virginia Theological Seminary

The Challenge of Coordinating a Busy Chapel

At Virginia Theological Seminary (VTS), daily worship is at the heart of preparing students for ministry. Monday through Friday, seminarians gather in Immanuel Chapel for Morning Prayer, Eucharist, and Evening Prayer.

With more than 125 seminarians rotating through roles like reader, intercessor, deacon, crucifer, and presider, the schedule is packed—and complex. Full participation is essential. "Every student is expected to serve in chapel as part of their formation," explains the Rev. Dr. Shawn Strout, Associate Dean of Chapel. "They need hands-on experience in a variety of roles."

Before adopting Ministry Scheduler Pro, coordinating the chapel schedule was a manual, time-consuming task. Juggling spreadsheets and group emails made it challenging to keep everything organized—especially with the high rate of annual turnover. "Every spring we graduate a third of our community, and every August we onboard a whole new class," says Rev. Strout. "It's a constant cycle.

Why MSP Made the Difference

These challenges prompted Rev. Strout to look for a better solution. He thought back to his own experience serving at Washington National Cathedral. "I remembered getting these clear, professional reminder emails," he recalls. "So I called the Cathedral to ask what they used—and that's how I found my way back to MSP. It's been a game-changer."

Once MSP was in place, the results were immediate:

• The auto-scheduler evenly distributes assignments among all students in minutes.
• Students use sub requests and swaps to manage changes independently, a time-saver for staff.
• Reminders via text or email keep everyone informed and prepared.

Practical Tools for Ministry

One feature VTS uses regularly is MSP's service planner. Chapel leaders upload everything seminarians need—readings, service outlines, liturgical notes, and assignments— so everyone involved can access these resources online or through the mobile app. No digging through emails or printouts.

This makes it easier for students to prepare, whether they're preaching, leading prayers, or serving in another role. "They're not just filling slots," Strout says. "They're learning how to lead worship in all its complexity—with confidence and care."

While MSP streamlines logistics, the deeper value lies in how it supports student learning.

Flexible Enough for Seminary Life

With more than 3,000 churches using Ministry Scheduler Pro, many associate it with Sunday morning worship. But Rev. Strout sees it as just as valuable for seminary settings.

For VTS and other seminaries, Ministry Scheduler Pro is more than a scheduling tool—it's a partner in the mission of forming church leaders.

Want to see if MSP is right for you?

Whether you're managing schedules in a parish or a seminary chapel, Ministry Scheduler Pro can help you save time, streamline communication, and engage your community actively in worship.

Start your 30-day free trial today.

About Virginia Theological Seminary

Located in Alexandria, Virginia, Virginia Theological Seminary is the largest of the accredited seminaries of The Episcopal Church. Through rigorous academic study, a deep liturgical tradition, and vibrant community life, the seminary prepares lay and ordained leaders for ministry in the church and the world.

The Rev. Dr. Shawn Strout serves as Associate Dean of Chapel, Associate Professor of Worship, and Director of Assessment. A published scholar and priest with over a decade of parish experience, Dr. Strout is passionate about teaching future leaders the theology and practice of worship, bringing that same passion to the seminary chapel.