St Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary (SVOTS) announces the creation of St Vladimir’s Online School of Theology, an accessible extension of the Seminary offering quality online Orthodox education to the general public, taught by SVOTS faculty. This new initiative is supported by a grant awarded in 2022 by Lilly Endowment Inc., propelling the Seminary’s entrance into online education.
The initial offerings from St Vladimir’s Online School of Theology are two non-degree courses, with plans to expand into certifications, potentially adding M.A. degree programs in the future.
The first course, Preparing to Read the Fathers, will be taught by the Rev. Dr Bogdan G. Bucur, Associate Professor of Patristics, starting June 6, 2023. In this lecture series, Fr Bogdan will discuss four historical lenses for properly approaching the Church Fathers, giving participants valuable tools for learning to understand "the mind of the Fathers."
Associate Professor of Old Testament Dr Michael Legaspi will teach the second course, Orthodoxy & the Old Testament, starting July 11, 2023. Dr Legaspi will explore the essential role and purpose of the Old Testament in Church Tradition and worship, and challenge participants to adopt an Orthodox orientation to the Scriptures.
Both courses are four weeks long and will take place via Zoom live-stream on Tuesday evenings from 8:00 to 9:15 p.m. (EDT). Each lecture will accompany recommended readings, a Q&A session, and weekly email communications from faculty.
Arpi Nakashian, Director of Online Education, described the intended audience for the new online courses, saying, “We hope these courses can benefit a wide array of participants, including inquirers who are just beginning to learn about Orthodox Christianity; Orthodox laypeople who seek to enrich their understanding and practice of the Orthodox Faith; and ordained and lay ministers who wish to continue their study of theology.”
SVOTS President, the Very Rev. Dr Chad Hatfield related his enthusiasm regarding the launch of St Vladimir’s Online School of Theology, commenting, “In the increasingly digital world we live in today, it is essential that St Vladimir’s Seminary continues to find new ways to share the Gospel and proclaim the Orthodox Faith to all who seek to know truth.”
Enrollment is now open for the two inaugural online courses at St Vladimir’s Online School of Theology; early registration is encouraged to secure a seat. To learn more and register for the courses, visit online.svots.edu or contact us at online@svots.edu.
