His Grace Bishop Serapion addressed the faculty and students of Claremont Graduate University and the School of Theology on the evening of October 29, 2008.
The topic of His Grace’s lecture was “Unity from an Orthodox Perspective.” His Grace spoke of the Coptic Orthodox Church’s belief and commitment to unity, as evidenced in the Holy Scriptures, writings of the Church Fathers, and the prayers and services of the Coptic Church. In addition, His Grace delivered an informative outline of the cooperative steps taken by the two families of Orthodox churches–Oriental Orthodox and Eastern Orthodox–toward reconciliation and full unity in communion. Finally, HIs Grace highlighted the past achievements and possible challenges on the path to ecumenical unity.
The evening also provided a recital of Coptic hymns by an ecclesiastical choir comprised of members of St. John Coptic Church in Covina, St. Abanoub and St. Antony Coptic Church in Norco, St. Marina Coptic Church in Lake Forest, and St. Maurice Coptic Church in Pomona.
Overall, the evening was a great success. The audience that filled the Mudd Theatre to capacity heard a beneficial and edifying lecture from His Grace. In addition, many Coptic parishioners from the Diocese were able to meet and interact with the dean, faculty, and students of Claremont Graduate University and the School of Theology, who were gracious hosts and full of hospitality.
The Lord willing, audio files and a DVD of this event will be available soon.
