AHOS at the ATS COA Biennial Meeting
The Antiochian House of Studies (AHOS) fully participated as a voting member in the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) Commission on Accrediting (COA) Biennial Meeting in Atlanta Georgia. This participation came in the wake of AHOS receiving full accreditation from ATS on June 7, 2022, empowering it to offer degrees in Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies, Master of Pastoral Care & Counseling, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Philosophy.
Additionally, with its accreditation, AHOS now has the right to vote on the business of the Association and the Commission, enabling it to actively contribute to shaping the future direction of the ATS community.
The ATS has accredited five officially recognized Orthodox theological schools in North America, one of which is the Antiochian House of Studies. These schools are situated among a multitude of other educational institutions affiliated with different denominations.
The ATS COA Biennial Meeting, held from June 19-20, 2024, offered AHOS a vital platform to engage with theological educators and leaders from diverse backgrounds.
Representing AHOS at the meeting were Fr. Michel Najim, President of AHOS, and Fr. Fadi Rabbat, Dean of AHOS. Their participation marked a pivotal moment for AHOS as they brought the institution’s perspectives and achievements to a broader audience, enhancing the dialogue around theological education and its future.
The full participation of AHOS in the ATS COA Biennial Meeting not only signifies a major achievement in its journey but also opens new avenues for academic collaboration and growth. The Antiochian House of Studies’ participation in the biennial meeting is a strong indication of the lasting impact and significance of Orthodoxy in North America.
Throughout the meeting, AHOS representatives engaged in various sessions aimed at enhancing its educational offerings and administrative practices. These sessions provided invaluable insights into theological education and best practices.
These sessions provided invaluable insights into theological education and best practices. During this biennial meeting, the participants, who consisted of a varied mix of scholars, clergy, and laypersons, acknowledged and deeply appreciated the significant value of the Antiochian House of Studies. The opinion and participation of the two delegates from the Antiochian House of Studies were highly valued. Their contributions not only enhanced the conversations, but also emphasized the profound theological and spiritual depth that the Antiochian House of Studies gives to the wider religious community.
AHOS continues to expand its impact and uphold its mission of providing a robust theological education rooted in the rich heritage of the Antiochian Orthodox tradition.
