From Theology to Pastoral Practice: Orthodox Hierarchs’ Perspectives on Lifelong Learning for Clergy in Greece

Abstract

To respond to the complex social challenges of the contemporary era, the Orthodox Church of Greece organizes training courses aiming to reinforce the priestly identity of the holy clergy and support their pastoral work. This paper explores the design and implementation of Continuing Education (CE) programs for the clergy of the Church of Greece, examined through the lens of adult education principles within the broader framework of Lifelong Learning (LLL). Focusing on the work of the Institute for Pastoral Education (I.P.E.), the study investigates the fulfillment of educational needs from the perspective of high-level Ecclesiastical Administration. Utilizing a qualitative methodology, three (3) in-depth interviews were conducted with Hierarchs from three (3) Metropolises representing distinct geographical and social environments: urban-multinational, provincial-multinational, and semi-urban with a significant refugee presence. The findings reveal a robust institutional will for professional development, focusing on addressing practical and functional gaps in Initial Ecclesiastical Education. The necessity for systematic Educational Needs Assessment (ENA) is highlighted, alongside the critical importance of the contextualization of programs. Overall, Continuing Education (CE) and Lifelong Education (LLE) emerge as a decisive factor in upgrading pastoral work, enhancing the clergy's capacity to respond effectively to the multifaceted challenges of contemporary society.