SVS Press Seeks Support to Publish St. John of Damascus’ 'Fount of Knowledge'

YONKERS, NY — St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press is seeking support from donors to complete the publication of a new English translation of "The Fount of Knowledge" by St. John of Damascus, one of the most significant theological works of the first millennium of Christianity. The book will become the third volume in SVS Press’ Popular Patristics Series: Longer Works, which focuses on major patristic texts that require a full-length format.

"The Fount of Knowledge" presents St. John’s theological synthesis in three sections, beginning with philosophical terminology and logic, followed by a discussion of various heresies and a historical Christian perspective on early Islam, and concluding with an extensive exposition of the Christian faith. SVS Press describes the work as a major achievement in the development of patristic theology.

The forthcoming edition will feature a new translation by Norman Russell, a leading translator of Byzantine theological texts, and will include the Greek text on facing pages. According to SVS Press Director Dr. Daniel Stauffer, the previous English translation, published in the 1950s, relied on an earlier version of the Greek text and contains passages that require updating.

St. John of Damascus, who lived in the seventh and eighth centuries, served in the court of the Umayyad caliphate before becoming a monk at the Monastery of St. Sabas near Jerusalem. Known for his theological writings, hymns, and defense of Orthodox doctrine during the icon controversy, he remains one of the most influential Eastern Church Fathers.

SVS Press is offering sponsorship opportunities for supporters who wish to help bring the volume into print, with donor names included in the book at various contribution levels. The deadline for names and dedications to appear in the publication is July 24, 2026. An interview with Dr. Stauffer on the project and the history of the work can be found here.

Previously, the UOJ reported that St. Tikhon's Monastery pocket Psalter was officially released.