Acts Theological School Co-hosts Pioneering International Symposium on Rediscovering Alexandria Liturgy with The Catholic University of America

Newport Beach, September 28, 2023 – ACTS Theological School proudly participated in a groundbreaking international symposium co-hosted by The Institute for the Study of Eastern Christianity and The Catholic University of America, marking a significant milestone in uncovering the liturgical practices of Alexandria, Egypt.

Father Stefanos Alexopoulos, Director of the institute and Associate Professor of Liturgical Studies/Sacramental Theology, opened the event, shedding light on the development and diversification of liturgical practices in Alexandria. These practices later evolved into Byzantine/Melkite, Coptic, Nubian, and Ethiopian rites, influencing Christian communities worldwide.

“This is the first-ever conference on the search for the Alexandrine liturgy: its origins, its legacy, and its impact,” said Father Stefanos Alexopoulos, director of the institute and associate professor of liturgical studies/sacramental theology, to the crowd gathered for the first session in Heritage Hall on Thursday, Sept 21.  

University President Peter K. Kilpatrick welcomed attendees representing various traditions, including American bishops from the Coptic Orthodox Church, emphasizing the importance of Eastern Christian studies at the University.

Bishop Kyrillos, Coptic Orthodox Church: "The Alexandria Liturgy Symposium transcended boundaries, fostering a deeper understanding of our shared liturgical heritage and strengthening the bonds among diverse Christian communities."

The symposium featured lectures by distinguished scholars Maxwell Johnson and Bishop Kyrillos, Dean of St. Athanasius & St. Cyril Theological School and was open to the public. Sponsors included the Center for Medieval and Byzantine Studies, Center for the Study of Early Christianity, Institute of Christian Oriental Research, Dumbarton Oaks, Mary Jaharis Center for Byzantine Art and Culture, and more.

Father Arsenius Mikhail, Acts Theological School: "This symposium was a remarkable collaboration that brought together scholars and traditions from around the world, offering profound insights into the rich tapestry of Eastern Christian liturgy."

For more information, please visit: https://communications.catholic.edu/news/2023/

To schedule an interview with Dean of the School, please contact Communications Department, Hani Philobbos at: hani.philobbos@acts.school