Academy of Orthodox Christian Studies established in Volos

In 1999, the Academy of Orthodox Christian Studies was formally established
here as a Summer Institute by His Eminence, Metropolitan Ignatios of Dimitrias. A unique seat of learning in the Orthodox world, the Academy endeavours to raise the level of theological education among Orthodox laypersons from all jurisdictions on all conti-nents.
Further, it seeks to identify the needs of the Church at large and to define and implement appropriate seminars and courses to equip committed persons to address these needs.
While the Academy is constituted within the Orthodox Church of Greece in general and the Diocese of Dimitrias in particular, not only welcomes enrollment from the faithful of other Orthodox Churches, but also from the Oriental Churches, the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion and the Churches of the Reformation. In this way, the Volos Academy demonstrates its commitment to Orthodox unity as well as to ecumenical exchange with other Christians.
Indeed, the Academy will serve the Orthodox Church as a whole. By addressing the traditions and resources of all Orthodox jurisdictions, the Academy can offer a stimulating education to the faithful and enable them to appreciate both the common inheritance and the rich variety within Orthodoxy. In building a panOrthodox presence in Volos, it is hoped
that with God's help the Academy will become a focus of bridge building among Orthodox Christians from around the world. This alone will constitute a positive contribution to the life of the Orthodox Church because in the present situation it is urgent, both for the health of Christian theology and witness and for the peace of Europe and beyond, that there be places
like the Academy where study, debate and mutual understanding can be fostered among Orthodox Christians of all traditions.
But theological education involves much more than purely academic endeavours. In the true spirit of Orthodox Christianity, the acquisition of knowledge and spiritual formation are inseparably connected. Life at the Volos Academy, in all its diverse aspects, is a dynamic process which takes place at the level of shared concerns centered on the values, spirit and
worship of the Orthodox Church. The participants experience the ethos and substance, the thought and tradition, the life and practice of the catholic and apostolic faith.
Worship is central to the life of the community. The Academy, therefore, is concerned not only with theoretical but also with spiritual and moral development. Liturgical services and common prayer are viewed as integral to the educational programme because learning about the Orthodox Church cannot be separated from the experience of Orthodox prayer and worship. A spiritual father is always present for confessions and spiritual counsel.
The Academy provides professional education to laypersons who share a common experience of learning and faith - men and women who, in their chosen professions will exemplify the values and spirit of Orthodox Christianity. Thus, it constitutes a unique context of personal growth and intellectual maturity for laypersons whose vocation is to provide witness and leadership in their Churches.
The aim of the Academy's programme is to offer, through its courses, a well-rounded introduction to the life and thought of the Orthodox Church. The participants will receive a sound education in the Church's understanding and use of Scripture, in ecclesiastical history, theology, worship and spirituality. They will be able to reflect intelligently on the role of the Church in the world and will also be given the appropriate intellectual tools for theological enquiry and reflection. The workshops, being of a more practical nature, will introduce the students to liturgical music, the study of icons, woodcarving, Church architecture and languages.
The Academy, equally concerned with the advancement of Orthodox thought and life, seeks to provide thorough theological reflection on vital issues facing the Church and society. It is dedicated to the task of helping men and women fulfil their calling to responsible service in the midst of the complexities and responsibilities of contemporary life.
The Academy of Orthodox Christian Studies is located at the outskirts of Volos, adjacent to the Pelion hills, "the Switzerland of Greece." Known for its beautiful mountain villages, sandy beaches, panoramic views and numerous Byzantine monasteries, the region is rich in cultural, educational, and athletic events. Ancient and medieval sites, such as Mt. Olympus, Meteora, Athos and Constantinople are accessible for excursions.
Tuition at the Academy, which includes beachside hotel accommodation, all meals, lectures, workshops, and domestic excursions, is $US1,000.00 for four weeks.
For further information and applications contact the Academy of Orthodox Christian Studies, Holy Metropolis of Dimitrias Conference Centre, Volos 38500 Greece; ++30 421 91202 and 91203; fax ++30 421 47405; 71628; 52881; e-mail imdimitr@otenet.gr.