Summer Institute to focus on Orthodoxy in America Today

“Orthodoxy in America Today” will be the theme of the annual Summer Institute of Liturgical and Pastoral Practice sponsored by Saint Vladimir Orthodox Theological Seminary here June 23-28, 2002.

“Now well into its third century in America, Orthodoxy faces new opportunities and new challenges,” says the Very Rev. Steven Belonick, seminary spokesman. “In many places the presence of growing numbers of new immigrants and new converts has been transforming parish life. Throughout America new technologies - particularly in communications and medicine - have created a host of new ethical issues. In our increasingly pluralistic society, where common values can no longer be taken for granted, Orthodox Christians have had to witness to their faith in new ways - in our schools, in our workplaces and in public life.”

The institute program, which offers separate pastoral practice and liturgical music tracks, will survey these and related issues faced by pastors, choir directors and singers, and Orthodox Christians in general. Participants may receive two graduate credits or academic units for qualifying levels and work completed in either track.

Seminary faculty members slated to participate in the institute include Protopresbyter Thomas Hopko, Dean; the V. Rev. Paul Lazor, Dean of Students; Profs. David Drillock, John Erickson, Paul Meyendorff and Albert Rossi; Mrs. Helen Erickson; Mr. Mark Bailey; and Ms. Eleana Silk. Other speakers include His Grace, Bishop Dimitrios of Xanthos; the V. Rev. John Breck, Wadmalaw Island, SC; the V. Rev. Nicholas Apostola, Worcester, MA; the V. Rev. Thomas Mueller, Milwaukee, WI; Dr. Jessica Suchy-Pilalis, Crane School of Music, SUNY; Miss Ann Mitsakos, Ph.D. candidate, Theology Department, Boston College; and Deacon Kevin Smith, SVS Fellow in Liturgical Music.

For further information or to register contact Saint Vladimir Seminary, 575 Scarsdale Rd., Crestwood, NY 10707; 914/961-8313 or visit the seminary web site at www.svots.edu.