Classical Union

Modeled after the Oxford Union and the Yale Political Union, the Classical Union is a non-competitive, interscholastic, debating society for upper school students from classically-minded schools in the northern Virginia area.

Groups of students from different schools come together for the day at the Sinclair House in Luray, VA, for a Parliamentary-style chamber debate on a timeless question from the Great Conversation. Complete with a chairman, a gavel, and spirited spectator participation, the Classical Union is the perfect opportunity for students to take all they've learned in their classical education and make outlandish impromptu orations to a lively audience of peers, while building wholesome community with likeminded students.

No prior experience with this form of debate is necessary for students to participate.

“The Classical Union debates hosted by the Cobbs at the Sinclair House, are remarkable, valuable, and necessary experiences. The entirety of the debate, from its environment to its structure, is designed to foster and allow for collegiate level thinking and rhetoric to flourish.

More importantly, it does this while encouraging fellowship with other like-minded Christian students. There is no organization or event that accomplishes both these things as well as the Classical Union debates do.

I left the Sinclair House hungry for more. I was enamored with the company and collegiality of it all. The experience fed me and has already impacted my life as I grow as a Christian and a learner. I can truly say that I left the Sinclair House a different person.”

Jack (10th Grade)

Past Debates

December 9, 2022

Ad Fontes Academy & Redeemer Classical School

"Resolved, Technology is Amoral."

March 24, 2023

Blue Ridge Christian School & Redeemer Classical School

"Resolved, Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder."

November 10, 2023

Veritas School & Redeemer Classical School

"Resolved, Be Patriotic."

February 9, 2024

Ad Fontes Academy, Faith Christian School, Redeemer Classical School, & Blue Ridge Christian School

"Resolved, Learn for Learning's Sake."

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Upcoming Debates

November 22, 2024

Faith Christian School, Redeemer Classical School, & Blue Ridge Christian School

"Resolved, Pharmaceuticals Should Only Be Used in Life-Threatening Situations."

February 14, 2025

Schools TBD

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