Diocese of Midwest Launches Chicago M.Div. Program

CHICAGO, IL — The first cohort of the Diocese of the Midwest’s new Master of Divinity program gathered Aug. 14–16 for an inaugural retreat marking the beginning of the program’s first academic year.

The Chicago M.Div. program is a joint initiative of the Diocese of the Midwest and St. Tikhon’s Seminary. The accredited three-year program combines online instruction with in-person intensive sessions, with St. Luke Church in Palos Hills serving as its home campus.

Twelve candidates from parishes and communities throughout the diocese participated in the weekend, which included introductions, an overview of the first-year curriculum, meetings with faculty, and student orientation. The gathering also provided opportunities for fellowship and conversation as the candidates began their studies together.

The program officially began with Vigil and Divine Liturgy for the Feast of the Dormition of the Holy Theotokos at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Chicago. Abp. Daniel addressed the students during his homily, entrusting their theological studies to the intercessions of the Theotokos and describing Her as the Church’s “first theologian” because She received and responded to God’s revelation in the Incarnation.

Saturday Vespers and Sunday Divine Liturgy were celebrated at St. Luke Church by Archpriest Paul Jannakos, the parish rector. The program is supported by a grant from Lilly Endowment covering administrative, faculty, and facility expenses.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Daniel announced a new center for Orthodox formation.