Department of Byzantine Christian Studies
The Department of Byzantine Christian Studies offers education and research with a focus on the history, theology, liturgy, and cultural heritage of the Byzantine Christian tradition. Here, academic studies and living tradition meet in an international and interdisciplinary environment.
About the department
The Department of Byzantine Christian Studies explores the rich theological and liturgical heritage of Greek, Slavic, and Caucasian Orthodox traditions. Our students engage with the theological developments that have shaped Christian doctrine over the centuries.
Special emphasis is given to understanding the Christological debates of the 5th century and engaging in rapprochement with Oriental Orthodox Christians. Through rigorous academic study, spiritual formation, and leadership training, we prepare future leaders who can bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary challenges in Orthodox communities across Sweden and beyond.
Courses & Programs
More about the department
The department works to preserve and develop knowledge of the Byzantine Christian tradition through education, research, and collaboration with ecclesiastical and academic institutions internationally.
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1
Liturgical traditions
The department works with liturgical traditions within Byzantine Christianity, with a particular focus on worship, hymnography, and symbolism. Students gain insight into how liturgy has shaped both religious practice and cultural identity throughout history.
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2
Church History
Teaching in church history covers the development of the Byzantine-Christian church from late antiquity to modern times. The focus is on historical events, ecclesiastical traditions, and the encounter between different Christian cultures and societies.
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3
Iconography and art
Studies in iconography and art examine the significance of visual tradition within Byzantine Christianity. Here, the theology of icons, their artistic expression, and their role in liturgical and cultural life are analyzed.
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4
The relationship between East and West within Christianity
The department explores the relationships between Eastern and Western Christian traditions through historical, theological and cultural perspectives. Special attention is given to dialogue, shared heritage and the differences that have shaped the development of Christianity through the centuries.
Faculty and Staff
Inna Aheikina
inna.aheikina@sanktignatios.org
Yuliia Naidych
yuliia.naidych@sanktignatios.org
Dr. Grant White
grant.white@sanktignatios.org
Daniel Öhrvall
daniel.ohrvall@sanktignatios.org
Veljko Birač
veljko.birac@sanktignatios.org
Richard Kovar
richard.kovar@sanktignatios.org
The Very Reverend Dr Milutin Janjić
milutin.janjic@sanktignatios.org
Very Reverend Serafim Smensgård
serafim.smensgard@sanktignatios.orgResearch and expertise
The department brings together researchers and teachers with particular expertise in Eastern Christian theology, liturgy, and cultural history. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, the department contributes to an increased understanding of the significance of Eastern Christian traditions in both historical and contemporary contexts.
