Rev. Dr. Theodore Stylianopoulos
Archbishop Iakovos Professor of Orthodox Theology and New Testament, Holy Cross
Pursuit of the common good is eloquently expressed by St. Paul: "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things" (Phil 4:8). These words affirm the basic goodness of humanity and the nobility of its innate spirit. In my priestly and teaching ministry I have tried to advocate and support this vision on the basis of the person and in the spirt of Christ.
How can a person speak about the impact of one's own work on the Church and society without sounding self-serving? What I have tried to do, with God's help, is to focus on the good news of the Gospel, spiritual life, and the advancement of God's kingdom and righteousness wherever I have been privileged to serve. As a way of life, Christianity requires that significant attention be given to the practical application of education and theology as training and wisdom for life. Education, theology, spirituality, practice, and personal integrity ought to constitute a seamless whole. Only God knows the extent of anyone's impact on others.
Being a priest and professor for some forty years certainly has meant changes in my life. I believe that people grow as a tree grows, the inner core remaining pretty much the same, while adding many rings around that core year by year. In important ways I feel I have not changed at all, retaining all my childhood ideals and desire to see God's will accomplished. In other ways I have become more realistic with the world and more patient with nonsense; I have learned the importance of doing one's own work to the best of one's ability and letting God take care of the flow of events. Above all I have appreciated the wisdom I have gained from students and colleagues.
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