As part of the 2026 Orthodox Scholars Preach series, organized by the Orthodox Christian Studies Center of Fordham University, we are pleased to share this sermon delivered on the Second Sunday of Great Lent — the Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas — by the Very Rev. Dr. John Behr.

This series brings together leading Orthodox scholars who offer short but meaningful sermons for the seasons of Triodion and Lent. The Sunday of St. Gregory Palamas is a particularly significant day in the Orthodox liturgical calendar, commemorating the great 14th-century theologian and Archbishop of Thessaloniki who defended the hesychast tradition and the possibility of direct, experiential knowledge of God through the divine uncreated energies.

About Fr. John Behr

The Very Rev. Dr. John Behr is one of the most distinguished Orthodox theologians of our time. He currently holds the position of Regius Professor of Humanity at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland — one of the oldest and most prestigious academic chairs in the English-speaking world. Before his appointment at Aberdeen, he served for many years as Dean and Professor of Patristics at St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary in New York.

Fr. John Behr is widely known for his profound scholarship in patristic theology, particularly his work on the early Church Fathers and the development of Christian doctrine. He is the author of numerous influential books, including his multi-volume series The Formation of Christian Theology, as well as works on St. Irenaeus of Lyons and the mystery of Christ. His theological vision is deeply rooted in the Scriptures and the Fathers, and his sermons consistently reflect both intellectual rigor and spiritual depth.

We are grateful for this contribution and encourage our community to watch, reflect, and be spiritually enriched by his words.