June 22-27, 2003

Living Tradition

From the earliest days, Christians have been concerned with Tradition. But what is this Tradition that Christians are called to preserve? How do we prevent the living Tradition of the Church from becoming a fossilized “traditionalism?” How is the Tradition maintained is such a way that it is not simply repetition, but creatively faithful, expressing the life of the Holy Spirit in the Church?

Such questions are directly relevant to every aspect of Christian life. This year’s Summer Institute will examine what is meant by “Tradition,” and how we, in our setting, are to be faithful to it in such a way that it is truly “living Tradition.”

Participants in the Institute follow one of two main tracks: Pastoral Practice or Liturgical Music. All registrants attend the main lectures given on the theme each morning. These are followed by pastoral seminars and sessions focusing on how the Orthodox understanding of Tradition is applied in practical terms, in parishes and family life.

New for this year, participants in the Pastoral Practice track will divide into groups for more focused discussion on the day’s topic. Participants in the Liturgical Music track will also explore continuities and discontinuities in Orthodox liturgical music, as well as divide into groups according to levels for training in conducting, composition and other specialties.

Make sure to check this page and other areas on this site regularly for updates.