Orthodox Ecotheology: An Evaluation of Orthodox Academic and Seminary Engagement and Examples for Discussion

Abstract

This article begins with a review of the historical Orthodox engagement with Eco and Animal theology before turning the focus to the level of contemporary engagement with both subjects by Orthodox academic institutions and seminaries. It has been 37 years since the then Ecumenical Patriarch, Dimitrios I invited the Christian world to act on behalf of God’s creation. To assist the necessary spiritual changes required, he dedicated the 1st of September as the day of prayers for the protection of the environment. His successor, Patriarch Bartholomew I has continued this work, so much so, that he is known as the “Green Patriarch.” In light of the numerous teachings, symposia, seminars, summits, etc., that have been available to Orthodox academic institutions and seminaries, one might reasonably conclude that these institutions would reflect these teachings in their courses. This paper examines whether or not this is the case. Also explored is the contemporary Orthodox public theological engagement with the missing dimension within ecotheology, that of animal theology. Two new modules that are taught by senior Orthodox theologians are proffered, which could be of assistance to academic and seminary leaders when formulating new course material on these important subject areas.