House of Studies Testimonials
The Very Rev. Fr. Chad Hatfield, Chancellor of St. Vladimir’s Seminary (Orthodox Church in America):
The Doctor of Ministry Program in the Eastern Christian Context has proven perfect for many of us who have come to Holy Orthodoxy with theological degrees and pastoral experience from various Western Christian traditions. Bringing with us the best of our past, and maintaining our pastoral ministry, we work towards a degree which helps form in us a deeper understanding of the “Orthodox way.”
The Rev. Fr. Dumitru Macaila, Pittsburgh, PA (Greek Orthodox Diocese of Pittsburgh):
I enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry Program in the Eastern Christian Context to refresh myself and become better prepared for “Confrontation.” After four seminars, I feel my priestly knowledge and experience are enriched. We doctoral students learn not only from each other’s strengths — but from each other’s weaknesses also.
The Rev. Fr. Kenneth M. Bachofsky, Warren, OH (American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Diocese of the U.S.A.):
I have cherished the personal growth, a new appreciation of the Faith, and camaraderie with fellow priests and colleagues. If it were for this alone, I would have entered the program. [But it has also] enriched my pastoral ministry in many ways, and I know that it has benefited my parish as well, because it has sensitized me to their needs and concerns.
Dalia Tinawi, New Zealand (St Stephen’s Certificate Program student):
The residency was like when St Paul went to 3rd heaven—Just amazing. We are missionaries in Australia, and being here is like seeing the church in the year 200.
And More...
Deacon Peter, I want to thank you for your efforts and work that you do for us in the House of Studies program. I am very glad to have met you. This past week was so fantastic. It gave me a new out look on the effort required , and the reason for the effort, and rejuvenated me to continue on in the studies. It truly was one of the best weeks in my life, if not the best. Thank you, In Christ, Keith
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Deacon Peter, St Stephen's is a wonderful program. It allows people from all over the world to pursue directed studies in Orthodox theology. The readings are very challenging, yet the yearly project ensures that the student maintains a practical mindset in how to apply that theological training in active ministry. This is not purely an academic exercise but really a theological formation. I consider myself fortunate to be part of this unique program and to benefit from such talented instructors.
The residency component especially is a great opportunity to fellowship with classmates from around the globe, to share ideas and experiences, while listening to lectures from the top-notch instructors. The sense of community is exceptional and is something that all the students miss after the program ends. The week in residence is a very intense week but one filled with love and humor and which leaves a lasting imprint on the soul. In Christ, Pantelis (from China)
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Dear Archdeacon Peter, I cannot tell you how wonderful an experience it was at The Antiochian Village this past week for The St. Stephen's Course of Study! This was my first Residency in the Program; and, to be totally honest, I was very apprehensive the week before, and was uncomfortable when I arrived on Sunday. By Monday afternoon, I felt completely at home! I attribute this to the holy location, the administrative staff, the faculty, my fellow students, and God! The Antiochian Village is truly a special and unique place, made even better by the people who care so much to make it the highest quality experience, to serve God, and to actively demonstrate striving to be as Christ. I appreciate everything you have done and cannot wait to return for the next two sessions. I promise to come the right week next year! M. Gursky Jr.
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The catalog you sent is excellent and provides an array of answers, I was thrilled to see the relatively low tuition costs, making my participation in this program more and more likely. Pastor David, Warrenton, VA