Diploma in Orthodox Theology Program Outline

EFFORT

The 2-year Diploma in Orthodox Theology (DOT) program is constituted of SIX modules covering various subjects which can be undertaken as a single integrated course of study, or pursued individually as a Certificate Course, with the option to advance toward a diploma over time.

 

MODULE 1: SCRIPTURE IN ORTHODOX TRADITION

Duration:          September 2026 to December 2027

Faculty:             HE Abraham Mar Stephanos & Dr. Elizabeth Joy

Credits:             5 Credits

Lectures:          4 x 2 hours each

Webinars:        4 x 1 hour each

Coursework:  2000 words essay

VIVA VOCE:     15 mins

Topics Covered:

·       Introduction to the concept of Holy Scripture in the Orthodox tradition.

·       Patristic hermeneutics: how the Church Fathers interpreted Scripture.

·       Scriptural exegesis in liturgy, theology, and pastoral practice.

·       Contemporary approaches to Scripture within Orthodox Christianity.

 

MODULE 2: WEST SYRIAC & BIBLICAL GREEK

Duration:          January 2027 to April 2027

Faculty:             Very Rev. Abraham George Cor-Episcopus & Rev. Fr. Jobin Mammen Cherian

Credits:             8 Credits

Lectures:          6 x 1.5 hours each (West Syriac)

Lectures:          6 x 1.5 hours each (Biblical Greek)

Topics Covered:

·       Introduction to the alphabets and phonology of both West Syriac and Biblical Greek.

·       Basic grammatical structures, including nouns, verbs, adjectives, and syntax.

·       Scriptural and liturgical texts in Syriac and Greek.

 

MODULE 3: UNDERSTANDING THE NICENE CREED

Duration:          May 2027 to August 2027

Faculty:             Rev. Fr. Dr. Aashu Alexander & Rev. Fr. Jibin Thomas Abraham

Credits:             8 Credits

Lectures:          4 x 2 hours each

Webinars:        4 x 1 hour each

Coursework:  2000 words essay

VIVA VOCE:     15 mins

Topics covered

·       Historical context: The Arian controversy and the First Council of Nicaea.

·       Trinitarian theology in the Nicene Creed.

·       Key Patristic figures and their contributions to the formulation of the Creed.

·       The Creed’s role in Christian worship and its ongoing ecumenical significance.

MODULE 4 : INTRODUCTION TO PATRISTICS (PRE-CHALCEDON CHRISTIAN TEACHERS)

Duration:          September 2027 to December 2027

Faculty:             Rev. Fr. Dr. Aashu Alexander & Rev. Fr. Dr. Anish John

Credits:             8 Credits

Lectures:          4 x 2 hours each

Webinars:        4 x 1 hour each

Coursework:  2000 words essay

VIVA VOCE:     15 mins

Topics covered

·       Introduction to key Patristic figures: Ignatius of Antioch, Irenaeus, and Athanasius.

·       Theological debates: Trinitarian and Christological controversies.

·       The formation of Christian doctrine and the canon of Scripture.

 

MODULE 5: SACRAMENTAL THEOLOGY

Duration:          January 2028 to April 2028

Faculty:             Rev. Fr. Dr. Aashu Alexander & Rev. Fr. Blessen Babu

Credits:             8 Credits

Lectures:          4 x 2 hours each

Webinars:        4 x 1 hour each

Coursework:  2000 words essay

VIVA VOCE:     15 mins

Topics covered

·       Introduction to the theology of sacraments/mysteries in Orthodoxy.

·       The sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Chrismation.

·       Theological significance of Confession, Marriage, Holy Orders, and Unction.

 

MODULE 6: ORTHODOX WITNESS & MISSION

Duration:          May 2028 to July 2028

Faculty:             Rev. Fr. Dr. Jacob Mathew & Rev. Fr. Jobin Mammen Cherian

Credits:             8 Credits

Lectures:          4 x 2 hours each

Webinars:        4 x 1 hour each

Coursework:  2000 words essay

VIVA VOCE:     15 mins

Topics covered

·       The theology of mission in Orthodox Christianity.

·       Historical models of Orthodox witness.

·       Practical applications of mission and service in the Orthodox tradition.

 

For queries, email effort@indianorthodoxuk.org