St. Michael Institute for Orthodox Studies breaks new ground for the future: Hexaemeron lends a hand.

The Third Annual St. Michael Institute for Orthodox Studies, held Sept. 22 and 23 at St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Church in Louisville, Ky., was more than a success. As the Very Rev. Alexander Atty, pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Church, stated, “This conference broke new ground for the future.”

On tap were three remarkable theologians who enjoined the audience of nearly 100 to consider the depths of what Christ accomplished for us upon the cross.

Fr. John Behr, professor of patristics at St. Vladimir Orthodox Theological Seminar, set the theme with a series of three lectures on “Why a Crucified Messiah.” The Very Rev. Fr. Michael Dahulich, Dean of St. Tikhon Orthodox Theological Seminar, and the Very Rev. Michael Laffoon, pastor of St. Mark Orthodox Church in Irvine, Calf., responded to Fr. John’s remarks with profound insights into what it means for us to co-die with Him that we may “live unto God.”

Dr. David Bradshaw, professor of philosophy at the University of Kentucky, facilitated a lively discussion between the presenters and the audience.

“Our purpose in conducting the Institute each year is to educate our people in the essentials of the Orthodox faith and life and to prepare them for the test of faith that comes to every Christian soul born into this world of tribulation,” said Fr. Alexander. “It is gratifying to have such a broad response this year, not only from the faithful in this parish, but also from so many parishes in the region and from states represented besides Kentucky: Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, Missouri and Illinois.”

Priests who attended the Institute with members of their parishes included: Fr. Steven Kostoff, pastor of Christ Our Savior Orthodox Church in Cincinnati; Fr Joseph Gibson, pastor of St John’s Orthodox Church in Indianapolis; Fr. Amin Houli pastor of St James Orthodox Church in Loveland, Ohio; and Fr Germogen from Florence, Ky. Several members of St. Andrew Orthodox Church in Lexington and from St. Athanasius Orthodox Church in Nicholasville, Ky., were also in attendance.

Hexaemeron staff and board members thank Fr. Alexander for letting us help plan and organize this seminal event, which is sure to bear much fruit to the Glory of God.