Asynchronous
Students learn on their own time. Assignments have due dates, but there are no set class times or days. Learning is through modules organized into weekly activities and assignments.
Synchronous
All students, both those living on our Brookline campus and those attending off campus or out of state, attend classes online. However, classes are held at certain times and days of the week.
Hybrid
Students on our Brookline campus attend classes in person in one of our classrooms, while remote students attend online. Classes are held at certain times and days of the week.
DOGM 7100 Z1 | Summer 2026
The Shape of Orthodox Theology
Asynchronous
This class will cover the development of theological reflection from the initial proclamation of the Gospel through the early centuries. It will examine the shape of the Scriptures used by the first Christians and the rule or canon of truth, and how the person and work of Christ was understood together with the Virgin Mother and what it is to be human. Particular figures will be studied, especially Sts Irenaeus of Lyons, Athanasius of Alexandria, Gregory of Nyssa, and Maximus the Confessor.
Instructor
Fr. John Behr
MDGK 5201 Z1 | Summer 2026
Beginning Modern Greek I-II
Synchronous | MTWTHF 9:00-12pm, 1-4pm
This is an intensive course in the fundamentals of grammar, syntax, and vocabulary of the Modern Greek language. Extensive practice in listening, speaking and graded reading will take place. An oral-aural method is used to develop concurrently conversational and understanding skills.
Instructor
Stamatia Dova
MDGK 6312 Z1 | Summer 2026
Intermediate Modern Greek I-II
Synchronous | MTWTHF 9:00-12pm, 1-4pm
This intensive summer course is a 3-credit course designed for students with previous instruction in Modern Greek. After a quick grammar review, the emphasis is on vocabulary building and conversational fluency.
Instructor
Kleanthi Mavrogiannaki
MDGK 6412 Z1 | Summer 2026
Advanced Modern Greek I-II
Synchronous | MTWTHF 9:00-12pm, 1-4pm
An intensive study of the language with special focus on vocabulary expansion, advanced syntactical structures, and oral usage. Selected readings of literary texts with passages from contemporary writers.
Instructor
Athanasios Vlitas
PATR 6075 Z1 | Summer 2026
Introduction to the Latin Fathers
Asynchronous
From the second century onward, Latin-speaking Christian authors played a decisive role in shaping the theological, exegetical, and institutional life of the early Church. This course offers an introduction to the major Latin Fathers, with particular attention to figures such as Tertullian, Cyprian of Carthage, and Augustine of Hippo, whose works emerged from the vibrant Christian cultures of North Africa and the wider Latin West. Reading these authors in translation, students will explore the distinctive features of Latin Christianity as it developed within the Roman imperial world, while also examining its profound and dynamic relationship with Greek-speaking Christian traditions. Particular attention will be given to points of convergence and divergence between Latin and Greek theological idioms, exegetical practices, and ecclesial concerns, as well as to the reception and circulation of texts across these linguistic and cultural boundaries. By situating the Latin Fathers within their social and regional contexts (e.g. North Africa, Italy), the course invites students to reconsider well-known figures as participants in a complex, interconnected Christian world whose intellectual and theological legacy shaped the Church of the first millennium.
Instructor
Samuel Pomeroy
CHST 5011 Z1 | Fall 2026
Church History I: Ecumenical Patriarchate
Asynchronous
This course offers a general introduction to the history of the Church up to the year 787. Emphasis will be laid on the main ecclesiastical and theological issues and personalities and on the study of certain key texts. Special attention will be given to the history and role of the Ecumenical Patriarchate.
Instructor
Dr. James Skedros
DOGM 5002 Z1 | Fall 2026
Dogmatics I
Asynchronous
The Orthodox doctrine of the knowledge of God and of the doctrines of the Trinity, cosmology, and anthropology. Emphasis will be placed on the ancient Fathers and on contemporary Orthodox dogmaticians.
Instructor
Fr. Demetrios Bathrellos
DOGM 7025 Z1 | Fall 2026
Patristic and Conciliar Dogmatics
Asynchronous
This course will provide a detailed study and analysis of select passages from St John of Damascus’ Exact Exposition of the Orthodox Faith, widely regarded as the most accurate and comprehensive summary of patristic and conciliar dogma up to the mid- eighth century. We will use the critical edition by Bonifatius Kotter and the recent English translation by Norman Russell. References will be made to the work’s use by later authors in both the Eastern and the Western traditions. This course is a valuable addition to core courses in Dogmatics.
Instructor
Fr. Demetrios Bathrellos
ETHC 6170 H1 | Fall 2026
Bioethics in the Age of AI
Hybrid | Thu 6:30-8:50pm
This course will consider a selection of end of life, origin of life, and medical ethical issues from an Orthodox Christian perspective. We will also examine bioethical challenges posed by the integration of Artificial Intelligence into diagnostics, drug discovery, personalized medicine, genomics, and clinical decision-making.
Instructor
Dr. Timothy Patitsas
INDS 6240 H1 | Fall 2026
Eastern-Oriental Orthodox Relations
Hybrid | Thu 6:30-8:50pm
This course examines the relationship between the Eastern (Chalcedonian) Orthodox and Oriental (Non-Chalcedonian) Orthodox families following the schism after the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD. It addresses how mutual vilification and misinformation have deepened the division between these communions. Theological exploration focuses on key Christological formulations, including the Miaphysis doctrine of Cyril of Alexandria affirmed at Ephesus, the two natures (physes) definition of Chalcedon, and subsequent debates concerning aphthartodocetism, wills, and energies. Historical analysis considers the evolving relations between the Churches after Chalcedon, particularly following the Arab conquests of Egypt and Syria. This includes examining specific encounters between Armenians and Greeks, Copts and Greeks in Egypt, and Syriac and Antiochian traditions. The course also investigates ecclesiological questions that challenge reconciliation, such as: (1) How would acknowledging the orthodoxy of those historically deemed heretics affect the doctrine of the Church’s infallibility? (2) How can parallel apostolic successions in ancient patriarchates like Alexandria and Antioch be understood and resolved? Instruction will draw from diverse readings representing both sides of the Chalcedonian divide, including perspectives for and against reunion. Guest lecturers will further provide expert insight and their respective Churches’ viewpoints.
Instructor
Dr. Peter Bouteneff & Andrew Yousef
INDS 7110 H1 | Fall 2026
The Ecumenical Movement
Hybrid | M 10:00am-12:20pm
The Ecumenical Movement has presented the church with several issues that have and continue to be addressed and wrestled with ranging from ecclesiology to the Eucharist, initiation to ordination, worship, and liturgy. Ecumenical relations have presented opportunities to identify key points of theological and praxis convergence and divergence across the major denominations of Christianity. Many of these challenges will be explored alongside the numerous opportunities for Christians to work across denominational lines on social services and social justice actions. Attention will be paid to the work and documents of the National Council of Churches, with supplemental documents from the World Council of Churches.
Instructor
Fr. Philip Halikias
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MDGK 5201 Z1 | Fall 2026
Beginning Modern Greek I
Synchronous | T & Th 3:30-4:50pm
A 3-credit course in the fundamentals of grammar, syntax, and vocabulary of the Modern Greek language. Extensive practice in listening, speaking and graded reading will take place. An oral-aural method is used to develop concurrently conversational and understanding skills. Lab Required.
Instructor
To be announced
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MDGK 6301 Z1 | Fall 2026
Intermediate Modern Greek I
Synchronous | T & Th 3:30-4:50pm
A continuation of the study of the Greek language. A quick review of grammar and syntax with an emphasis on vocabulary building. Introduction to selected readings in Modern Greek. Required lab. Prereq: Beginning Modern Greek I and II.
Instructor
To be announced
MUSB 5011 Z1 | Fall 2026
Ecclesiastical Chant II in English
Synchronous | F 12:20-2:20pm
The sacraments and services found in the Great Euchologion are studied for practical use. Prereq: Byzantine Music I and Ecclesiastical Chant I in English.
Instructor
Georgios Theodoridis
NEWT 5002 Z1 | Fall 2026
Introduction to the New Testament
Asynchronous
A required survey of the New Testament books in their historical and religious background with attention to hermeneutics, the patristic exegetical heritage, and modern biblical studies.
Instructor
Fr. George Parsenios
NEWT 6045 Z1 | Fall 2026
Philanthropic Ministry in the New Testament
Asynchronous
The focus of this course is on some of the classical biblical texts and their interpreters that urge us to serve and to keep the Lord's commandments. In particular, serving the poor and loving the neighbor will be studied through biblical readings and classic Patristic homilies and Lives of Saints (including more recent ones) who have embodied the spirit of philanthropy and outreach to their communities.
Instructor
Dr. Bruce Beck
NEWT 7025 Z1 | Fall 2026
The Apostle Paul as Pastor
Asynchronous
This exegetically based course will explore Paul's varied pastoral responses to the differing circumstances his communities presented to him. Particular attention will be given to (1) the character and work of Paul as a shaper of communities, and (2) the manner in which Paul relies on, but also transforms, ancient patterns of moral formation and ancient styles of rhetoric.
Instructor
Fr. George Parsenios
OLDT 5001 Z1 | Fall 2026
Introduction to the Old Testament
Asynchronous
The Introduction to the study of the Old Testament is not, and cannot be, a substitute of the Old Testament, but rather a preparatory step, a reading guide, and a candid invitation to reading the Old Testament. The course is divided into two parts. The General Introduction deals with the Old Testament as history, literature, and part of the living tradition. The following topics are discussed in detail: unity in diversity of the Christian Bible, biblical text, biblical canon, and relationship between Scripture and Tradition. The Special Introduction surveys the books of the Old Testament (including the anaginoskomena) and focuses on some theological themes rooted in the Pentateuch and running throughout the Old and New Testaments along with their interpretations within various hermeneutical contexts (Jewish, Christian, modern scholarship). The two themes discussed here are God and humanity.
Instructor
Fr. Eugen Pentiuc
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OLDT 5001 Z2 | Fall 2026
Introduction to the Old Testament
Synchronous | 9:10-10:30am
The Introduction to the study of the Old Testament is not, and cannot be, a substitute of the Old Testament, but rather a preparatory step, a reading guide, and a candid invitation to reading the Old Testament. The course is divided into two parts. The General Introduction deals with the Old Testament as history, literature, and part of the living tradition. The following topics are discussed in detail: unity in diversity of the Christian Bible, biblical text, biblical canon, and relationship between Scripture and Tradition. The Special Introduction survey the books of the Old Testament (including the anaginoskomena) and focuses on some theological themes rooted in the Pentateuch and running throughout the Old and New Testaments along with their interpretations within various hermeneutical contexts (Jewish, Christian, modern scholarship). The two themes discussed here are God and humanity.
Instructor
Fr. Eugen Pentiuc
PAST 6011 H1 | Fall 2026
Theology Of Pastoral Care I
Hybrid | T & Th 9:10-10:30am
As one part of your journey here at Holy Cross, this course, the Theology of Pastoral Care I, is intended to help you integrate and apply the knowledge you have acquired in other classes into your own life and in pastoral care situations. As a Field Education Course for hospital ministry, you will be placed in a local hospital for the semester. Specifically, we will explore hospital ministry as one aspect of pastoral care, as we develop a theology of pastoral care. The intent of this class is not to provide you with the right answers for pastoral situations. Rather, this course is designed, with the readings, class discussions, theological reflection groups, and assignments to develop your knowledge and skills related to hospital ministry as well as your personal identity as an Orthodox Christian seminarian and future minister or priest.
Instructor
Dr. Philip Mamalakis
PAST 6601 H1 | Fall 2026
Grief, Death and Dying
Hybrid | T & Th 2:10-4:30pm
One cannot overstate the significance of death, and preparing for death, in understanding life and, particularly, life in Christ. Pastors and ministers are certain to be called upon to minister to those facing death and those grieving the loss of a loved one. In this course, students will develop a pastoral approach to the dying and those experiencing grief through a survey of the existing literature on grief and bereavement in the context of the Orthodox theology of life after death. Students will explore the art and skill of ministering to the dying and the bereaved and develop their understanding of a theological framework for caring for the dying and the bereaved. Necessarily, this topic will touch upon our own personal experiences of loss and death, and students will be invited to explore how their own beliefs and experiences can inform and enhance their pastoral approach.
Instructor
Dr. Philip Mamalakis
PAST 6662 H1 | Fall 2026
Pastoral Care and Mental Health
Hybrid | W 2:10-4:30pm
Issues of mental illness and health continue to challenge pastors and ministers as they seek to guide their parishes and communities. Recent events related to the pandemic have increased the rates of mental illness in our communities and heightened the need for pastors to possess a basic level of competency related to understanding mental health and illness. Mental illness and health, how we define it, how we identify it, and how we address it, calls into question how we understand God, human nature, the person, free will/personal agency, and the theological relationship that these issues have with the broad field of mental health, commonly referred to as psychology. This class will explore these issues as they apply to the most prevalent issues of mental health that a pastor/priest/minister will encounter in the parish. Special emphasis will be placed on the relationship between theology and psychology and the role of the pastor/priest/minister in ministering to people struggling with issues of mental health in the parish.
Instructor
Dr. Philip Mamalakis
PATR 5011 Z1 | Fall 2026
Patrology
Asynchronous
This core-course serves as a general introduction to the Fathers and the main periods of Patristic Literature from post-apostolic times to the Council of Nicaea in the fourth century. The course combines an introduction to the central Fathers of this period, with attention not only to the doctrinal issues, but also the literary, historical, and cultural context of this period.
Instructor
Fr. Demetrios Bathrellos
PATR 6032 Z1 | Fall 2026
St. Gregory of Nyssa
Synchronous | M 6:30-8:50pm
The Second Council of Nicaea (787) proclaimed St Gregory of Nyssa the "Father of Fathers." The biological brother of St. Basil the Great and the self-professed disciple of his sister St. Makrina, Gregory is remembered as the most speculative of the Cappadocian Fathers. In this course, we explore Gregory's dogmatic writings (especially his seminal contributions to the doctrine of the Trinity) as well as his exegetical sermons and mystical treatises. Through a close reading of the primary sources, students will have the opportunity to encounter this gifted and complex theologian directly and in his own words.
Instructor
Dr. Tikhon Pino
