In October 2023, Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology received a generous grant from the Lilly Endowment’s Compelling Preaching Initiative to establish The Scriptorium: Preaching and Teaching the Word of God in a Digital Age A focal point of The Scriptorium Initiative (TSI) is this website.

The winning grant proposal was designed and written by Rev. Dr. Eugen J. Pentiuc, Dean of Holy Cross, Archbishop Demetrios Chair of Biblical Studies and Christian Origins, in consultation with Dr. James C. Skedros, Michael G. and Anastasia Cantonis Professor of Byzantine Studies and Professor of Early Christianity, and Rev. Dn. Gary Alexander, HCHC’s Vice President for Administrative Affairs, Operations and Finance.

Through a hybrid delivery network of offerings both in-person and online, in a variety of forms, ranging from courses, workshops, and conferences to online audio-video podcasts, webinars and shows, The Scriptorium Initiative advances Holy Cross’ commitment to compelling preaching from the pulpit and to continuing education aimed at reaching traditional churchgoers as well as non-churchgoers who seek truth and meaning in a world of rapid and continuous change.

His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America stated, “We are very grateful to the Lilly Endowment Initiative for believing in the vision and mission of our beloved School. This grant comes as a confirmation of Holy Cross’ rebirth and its status as a place of the highest academic standards, dedicated to the service of the Church, of our Holy Archdiocese, and all clergy and faithful who will grow spiritually closer to God by engaging with the Lord’s teaching. We would like to congratulate Rev. Dr. Eugen J. Pentiuc for his unique leadership of this ground-breaking project.”

Holy Cross is one of 81 organizations receiving grants through this competitive round of the Compelling Preaching Initiative. Reflecting the diversity of Christianity in the United States, the organizations are affiliated with mainline Protestant, evangelical, Catholic, Orthodox, Anabaptist and Pentecostal faith communities. Lilly Endowment launched the Compelling Preaching Initiative in 2022 because of its interest in supporting projects that help to nurture the religious lives of individuals and families and foster the growth and vitality of Christian congregations in the United States.

For more information see the HCHC press release issued on October 12, 2023.