Iași, Romania / United States — [Nov – 2025] — A significant milestone in Orthodox higher education has been reached with the signing of an official Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Faculty of Orthodox Theology “Saint Dumitru Stăniloae” at Alexandru Ioan Cuza University (UAIC) in Iași, Romania, and the Antiochian House of Studies (AHOS) in the United States.
This landmark agreement establishes a formal academic partnership between the two institutions and creates a framework for transformative collaborative initiatives. Both institutions have expressed strong enthusiasm for expanding educational opportunities, fostering cross-continental dialogue, and advancing Orthodox theological scholarship on a global scale.
Core Objectives of the Partnership
The MOU outlines a comprehensive framework for cooperation in Orthodox Christian teaching, education, and research. Key areas of collaboration include:
Academic Recognition & Standards
- Mutual recognition of both institutions as accredited centers of higher learning
- Commitment to maintaining the highest educational standards
- Recognition and transferability of courses and academic credits between institutions
Program Development
- Creation of dual degree programs that combine the strengths of both institutions
- Joint curriculum development in specialized areas of Orthodox theology
Exchange & Mobility
- Faculty exchange programs to facilitate knowledge sharing and research collaboration
- Student exchange opportunities based on academic merit, need, and reciprocity
- Short-term residencies and research visits
Academic Events & Publications
- Organization of joint academic conferences, symposia, and workshops
- Collaborative research projects and co-authored publications
- Shared access to theological libraries and research resources
Future Initiatives
- Additional collaborative programs to be developed based on mutual agreement and emerging needs
The Faculty of Orthodox Theology (Iași, Romania)
Founded in 1860, the Faculty of Orthodox Theology “Saint Dumitru Stăniloae” is one of the historic founding faculties of Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Romania’s oldest higher education institution. It bears the name of Fr. Dumitru Stăniloae, one of the most influential Orthodox theologians of the 20th century.
The faculty offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs, and is well-regarded for its contributions to:
- Patristic studies
- Biblical theology
- Liturgical life
- Social and pastoral theology
- Preservation of Orthodox heritage and manuscripts
The institution serves as a major academic and spiritual center for Romanian Orthodoxy, combining scholarly research with pastoral formation.
The Antiochian House of Studies (United States)
Established in 1980 under the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch, the Antiochian House of Studies (AHOS) has become a leading institution for Orthodox theological education in North America. AHOS provides accessible theological training for clergy, scholars, and lay students through both distance learning and in-person residency programs.
In 2022, AHOS received full accreditation from the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), granting it the ability to offer graduate-level degrees, including:
- Master of Divinity (MDiv)
- Master of Theological Studies (MTS)
- Master of Pastoral Care & Counseling (MPCC)
- Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
- PhD in Orthodox Studies
AHOS also hosts the Orthodox Academic Society (OAS) and maintains a significant theological library serving researchers internationally.
A Shared Vision for Global Orthodox Education
This partnership represents far more than administrative cooperation—it embodies a profound commitment to unity, academic excellence, and pastoral formation within global Orthodoxy.
Bridging Traditions
By uniting the deep theological traditions of Eastern Europe with the dynamic Antiochian heritage in North America, this collaboration creates unprecedented opportunities for:
- Cultural Exchange: Students and faculty experiencing different expressions of Orthodox faith and practice
- Scholarly Collaboration: Joint research projects drawing on diverse methodological approaches
- Pastoral Innovation: Sharing best practices in theological education and ministry formation
- Global Perspective: Preparing graduates to serve in an increasingly interconnected Orthodox world
Framework for Growth
The MOU serves as a parent document that will guide the development of specific program agreements, including:
- Detailed student exchange protocols
- Joint degree program structures
- Faculty collaboration frameworks
- Research partnership guidelines
- Conference and event organization procedures
Looking Ahead
Both institutions view this partnership as the beginning of a long-term relationship that will evolve to meet the changing needs of Orthodox theological education. As specific initiatives develop under this framework, official announcements will be released by both academic institutions.
This collaboration stands as a testament to the universal character of Orthodox Christianity and the shared commitment to preparing the next generation of theologians, pastors, and scholars who will serve the Church and broader society with wisdom, compassion, and integrity.
For Media Inquiries:
Faculty of Orthodox Theology “Saint Dumitru Stăniloae”
Alexandru Ioan Cuza University
Iași, Romania
Saint Dumitru Staniloae Faculty of Orthodox Theology – Universitatea „Alexandru Ioan Cuza” din Iași
La Faculté de Théologie Orthodoxe „Saint Dumitru Stăniloae” – Universitatea „Alexandru Ioan Cuza” din Iași
Antiochian House of Studies
Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch
United States
Contact – Antiochian House of Studies | AHOS
This partnership reflects the commitment of both institutions to advancing Orthodox Christian education through international cooperation, scholarly excellence, and faithful service to the Church.
