Description
In this seminar, the embodied experiential theology of the Elders (Elder Joseph of Vatopedi, Archimandrite Sophrony, St. Silouan, Elder Paisios of Mount Athos, Cleopa of Sihastria, Fr. Arseny, Elder Porphyrios, Ephraim of Phoenix) will be studied. These elders presently influence and guide in a substantial way the spiritual life of many Orthodox Christians. The seminar will focus on the spiritual discipline and ethos that guided these elders in their journey toward God; the theological and liturgical underpinnings of their experiential theology; and the historical antecedents of their monastic ethos. Given the fact that these elders lived and developed their experiential theology in monastic communities, the seminar will reflect on how their ascetical practices can guide those who espouse to live an authentic Christian life.