St. Vladimir’s Seminary welcomes the members of the Class of 2015! Over the course of eleven hectic days, new and returning students and their families: participated in a full schedule of services, registered for classes, auditioned for choir, picked up ID cards, congregated for cookouts, attended the first gathering for the St. Juliana Society serving the spouses of seminarians, and attended multiple seminars and orientation sessions.
“It was the best orientation I can recall during my time here,” noted The Very Rev. Dr. John Behr, dean and professor of Patristics. “We are continuing to work out ways to make sure that the students begin on the right foot, and are set up for success. It’s a great crowd of students, and I am looking forward very much to working with them over the coming years.”
“We have welcomed 31 new full-time students in three different degree programs,” said The Very Rev. Dr. Chad Hatfield, Chancellor/CEO. The men and women of the Class of 2015 come from all over the United States and beyond, and represent over ten Orthodox jurisdictions and Christian affiliations.
“These new arrivals and returning seminarians—the first to participate in our Fully Paid Tuition Plan—total 65 for the 2012–2013 Academic Year,” explained Fr. Chad.
“We are most thankful for this robust new class. During our Orientation sessions, Frs. John Behr, Alexander Rentel, David Mezynski, and I addressed the topic: ‘Orthodox Spirituality and Vocation.’ Responses from the students were overwhelmingly positive, and they wanted to continue the discussion. It was interesting to me to see how we four priests spoke with one voice, with presentations in complete harmony."
At the first Student Council meeting President Dn. James Parnell greeted the new and returning students, reminding them that the Council offers a place where students may address issues. “The SVS faculty really does listen to student input and recommendations,” he said.
Secretary Nicholas Roth introduced the various student special interest groups and themes, and encouraged participation. These run the gamut, from interseminary dialogue, prolife outreach, health and wellness, and environmental responsibility.
Reflected new student Ashli Moore of Oregon, “Orientation week left me in no doubt that this is a very demanding program! Yet I’ve experienced such warm hospitality here since I arrived, and I’m confident that this is a safe environment in which to meet the challenges of the program.” Ashli expressed appreciation for the personal touches, such as the welcome gifts from Board members and their wives.
Added Joshua McCoy of Arizona, “To see Christ from a decidedly Orthodox view is to truly see Him, and towards this end the professors and chapel services have encouraged me.”
Browse the 2012 Orientation Schedule
View the photo gallery
Read more about the Seminary’s academic programs:
Pastoral Education
Biblical Studies and Homiletics
Iconology Classes
