ODC Program

"ODC 2017 was academically challenging: through discussion we received good feedback and suggestions to the researches me did. It was also spiritually encouraging. A wonderful place in which one can work hard, focus and make progress in the research."

"Visiting the Orthodox Church in Osijek with our Orthodox brothers, listening to their chanting in the classroom, praying for each other, singing with Pamela and Tereza, laughing in the afternoons with Doru, Peter, Ivan, Radik, Alexey about the elephant that got lost in theology ... All of that encouraged me to go on. Inasmuch I felt lost before the ODC, being in this surrounding I could see the light at the end of the tunnel. I thank prof. Parush and Anne-Marie for their support and trust in me."

"I could study more than 20 books on exegesis of key texts for my thesis! The professors showed me in practice how to do hermeneutic research and write it in a proper way. ... I could devote the time at ODC to my research. I was not distracted either by the members of my church or by those who work in the regional association of churches (because in my city, I am constantly engaged in the ministry in the local church and in the regional ministry). At ETS I had an opportunity to be in communication with the professors; they listened attentively to me and examined what I had written. Afterwards they directed me to investigate further those parts that were poorly covered. That was really great! I am so thankful to them!"

"The program has different parts, and yet they are all connected. Myself, I started with friendships, because to me the most important is to get to know the people with whom I am going to meet and discuss every day. ... I really enjoyed all the time spent at ETS. Coming from different Church traditions, we had lots to discuss during our presentations but also during coffee breaks, at the table and so on. Even when we went from hotel to the school, we did not stop discussing our difference and similarities, being constantly curious about each other."

"To me, the most important were professionalism of teachers/mentors, open discussions and friendly atmosphere. For example, I felt confident after my first brief presentation in the class and full of hope after sharing my life story! I learned not only by being in touch with the mentors, but also being in constructive dialogue with students from other countries, mentalities, cultures, political views. But the most helpful was time spent in the library..."

"I am very grateful to the Lord and thankful to all that made ODC 2017 possible. I had an opportunity to work in a good library; I spent quality time with mentors; I enjoyed the meals and morning devotions. It was great to build fellowships with other participants and to hear their stories. Very encouraging and inspiring!"