08/19/2026
Holy Cross Launches New Webpage for The Catechist
Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology is pleased to announce the launch of a dedicated webpage for The Catechist: The Art of Listening and Teaching, a new Certificate Program in Orthodox Catechism presented by Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology through The Scriptorium Initiative.
The vision for The Catechist program was conceived by His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, together with the Most Reverend Members of the Holy Eparchial Synod, in response to the growing pastoral need to prepare qualified lay catechists to assist the clergy in the Church’s apostolic ministry of teaching. That vision was subsequently developed and given academic form by the faculty of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology under the leadership of its Dean, the Rev. Dr. Eugen J. Pentiuc.
The program is co-directed by Fr. Eugen J. Pentiuc and Dr. James C. Skedros.
Designed for lay leaders, parish educators, ministry volunteers, clergy spouses, recent converts, and Orthodox Christians seeking deeper theological formation, the year-long online program combines recorded lectures and assigned readings with weekly live zoom seminars. Its five instructional modules address the foundations of the Orthodox faith, moral theology and eschatology, sacramental and liturgical life, Orthodox spirituality, and catechetical pedagogy.
Participants may enroll in the Certificate Track, designed for those preparing to serve as parish catechists, or the Enrichment Track, for those seeking theological and catechetical formation without certification requirements.
The inaugural program begins October 5, 2026, with Module I: Foundations of the Orthodox Faith:
Dates Topic Instructor
Oct. 5–9 Divine Revelation Fr. Eugen J. Pentiuc
Oct. 12–16 Holy Scripture Fr. Eugen J. Pentiuc
Oct. 19–23 Holy Tradition Dr. James C. Skedros
Oct. 26–30 “I believe in one God…” Fr. Demetrios Bathrellos
Nov. 2–6 “And in one Lord Jesus Christ…” Fr. George Parsenios
Nov. 9–13 “And in the Holy Spirit…” Fr. Philip Zymaris
The newly launched webpage provides information about the curriculum, five modules, faculty, schedule, Certificate and Enrichment Tracks, and enrollment.
Those interested in taking courses, participating for enrichment, or enrolling in the Certificate Program are invited to visit: https://www.thescriptoriuminitiative.org/the-catechist/
