St. Vladimir’s Seminary Awarded $25K Grant to Advance Study of Oriental Orthodox Chant

St. Vladimir's Seminary choir performing at a past event. Photo: svots.edu

YONKERS, NY — St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary has been awarded a $24,990 grant to support a new initiative promoting the study and appreciation of Oriental Orthodox liturgical singing.

As shared in a release from the seminary, the funding, provided by the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship as part of its "Vital Worship, Vital Preaching" program, will support a year-long project beginning in 2026. The initiative is designed to explore both the commonalities and distinctions between Eastern and Oriental Orthodox traditions of sung worship within a theological education setting.

Led by Dr. Alexander Lingas, professor of music and associate director of the Institute of Sacred Arts, the project aims to foster greater mutual understanding within the seminary’s diverse academic community, which includes members of Oriental Orthodox Churches.

Planned events include seasonal workshops on Syriac and Armenian chant, featuring leading practitioners, as well as an international colloquium scheduled for late October titled “Liturgical Music in Oriental and Eastern Orthodox Theological Education.” The gathering will bring together scholars and church leaders to examine the role of sacred music across traditions.

As stated in the release:

Dr. Lingas commented on the project, saying, “Having led an earlier initiative sponsored by the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship at St. Vladimir’s Seminary devoted only to Eastern Orthodox traditions, I am thrilled at this opportunity to learn more about the ancient chant traditions of our Oriental Orthodox brothers and sisters.”

Institute of Sacred Arts Director Dr. Peter Bouteneff added, “The Calvin Institute grants have been about sharing our experience of liturgical music across ethnic and jurisdictional lines. It’s a special joy to expand this now to Oriental Orthodox traditions, with whom St. Vladimir’s Seminary has partnered for decades.”

The grant is one of dozens awarded nationwide, with funding provided through Lilly Endowment Inc., supporting projects that seek to renew and enrich Christian worship practices.

Previously, the UOJ reported that SVOTS had announced a catechist certification course.

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