Our Approach to Theology

St Andrew's is dedicated to having an academic, spiritual and practical nature in its studies in order to impart to students thorough knowledge, skills and phronema (mentality or attitude) in Orthodox theology and spirituality for multifarious diakonia (ministry) in an Australian context. Given the distinctive theological ethos and character of Eastern Christianity, the aim of the College's educational program is to integrate spirituality, faith and academic excellence offering a rich and robust curriculum which gives students the opportunity to immerse themselves in a whole array of different disciplines. Consequently, St Andrew's is not a secular institution. The mind, the heart and the soul are to be nurtured: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbour as yourself” (Luke 10:27). At St Andrew's, the lecture room, the library and the study (the places of learning), and the chapel (the place of worship), are all of equal significance. All scholarly endeavours are ultimately a reflection upon the glory and truth of the Holy Trinity and divine revelation. This sacred meditation upon God's Word is to be pursued by both faculty and students within the various theological disciplines within the lecture room with the certainty of academic freedom and dignity.
In the spirit of Orthodox Christianity, educational growth is inseparably bound to the values, spirit and experience of the faith. As such, St Andrew’s is concerned with the spiritual and moral development of the students. The theologian is the one who struggles not only to gain a deep understanding of the faith but also lives this faith with all its powers and practical applications.