On Monday, September 2nd, the St. Irenaeus Orthodox Theological Institute in Nijmegen launched its new academic year with a sense of excitement and achievement. The Institute welcomed a record 21 new students—its largest intake to date! While most students attended in person, some participated online, including one student from Jordan, where she is currently completing an internship.

The day’s events began with an opportunity for the new students to meet and get acquainted. This was followed by an introduction to the Institute’s ‘blended learning’ format, which combines in-person and online instruction to provide a flexible educational experience for all students.

After a brief tour of the Nijmegen campus, the faculty librarian introduced the physical and digital resources available to support students in their studies. The importance of accessing these resources efficiently—whether for books, articles, or other scholarly materials—was highlighted as an essential part of the learning experience.

The academic year officially began this week with the courses Orthodox History I, taught by Fr. Joan Lena, and Orthodox Scripture, led by Fr. John Behr. The Institute looks forward to a year filled with theological learning and spiritual growth as students dive into the study of Orthodox tradition and scripture.