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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.
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