Guest-lecturer Offered Insights on Patristic Theme

Professor Andreas Andreopoulos, a graduate from University of Durham and currently a Research Associate at the Pontifical Institute of Medieval Studies in Toronto, delivered an absorbing lecture on "Mystery and Symbol in Dionysios the Areopagite and Maximus the Confessor."

As an introduction Prof. Andreopoulos presented highlights from the lives of these great Fathers. After explaining the linguistic and theological significance of the words, "symbol" and "mystery" Prof. Andreopoulos continued by expounding on the development of thought in the works of St. Dionysios and later by St. Maximus on the God-man Jesus Christ and our personal spiritual growth leading to union with God and salvation. Especially profound were Andreopoulos' remarks concerning Dionysius' attention to Moses' ascent on Sinai and Maximus' reflections on our Lord's transfiguration in relation to the prophets and the disciples. The presentation inspired a lively discussion, raising issues such as the influence of neo-platonic thought in pseudo-Dionysius' writings. Thought provoking exchanges between audience and presenter continued during tea and refreshments offered afterwards.

The Seminary was grateful not only for Dr. Andreopoulos' insights but also for his heroic struggle to travel from Toronto to the Seminary during a record-breaking snowstorm.