On Thursday, February 25-26, 2021, the College commenced its academic year with a two-day orientation program attended by all newly enrolled (approximately 30 students in person, and another 15 followed via ZOOM) and some continuing students (all-in-all, the College has 94 students).
The program officially began with the morning Orthros Service in the Cathedral of the Annunciation of our Lady.
Bishop Emilianos of Meloa, officially welcomed all new students on behalf of Archbishop Makarios of Australia. This was followed by an address by Βishop Elpidios of Kyaneon, titled ‘Embarking on a Journey at St Andrew’s Theological College through the Eyes of a Graduate.’ Βishop Elpidios briefly spoke about his own personal journey outlining the reasons why he came to study at St Andrew’s. The main part of the talk was a wonderful and inspiring testimony of the way Liturgy confirms all that is taught in the classroom. Throughout his paper, Βishop Elpidios underlined the importance of endeavoring to live what is learned at the College.
Other talks relating to the atmosphere in which the study of theology ought to be undertaken—namely one in which students appreciate the mystery of God is not rationally understood but rather approached in prayer and thanksgiving—were given by the Sub-Dean, Associate Professor Philip Kariatlis, and Fr Anastasios Bozikis (Lecturer in Church History). Practicalities relating to academic and student life were addressed by a range of faculty members including Mario Baghos (Lecturer in Patristics), Lydia Gore-Jones (Lecturer in Biblical Studies), Anastasios Kalogerakis (Registrar and Lecturer in Koine Greek), Fr Irenaeus Triantis (IT Officer) and Chris Baghos (Librarian).
Fr Christophoros Krikelis, the College chaplain, also addressed the in-residence students.
A sumptuous lunch was offered which was an occasion for great fellowship among faculty and students. On the following day, Associate Professor Peter Bolt, Academic Director of the Sydney College of Divinity, addressed the students, introducing them to the SCD, the importance of academic integrity. The day continued with a number of presentations relating to academic writing, I.T. support, and Library resources by different members of the Faculty.
