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St Gregory of Nazianzus
© Greek Orthodox Archdiocese
of America

An Introduction to St Gregory of Nazianzus
This course is one in a series of short courses aiming to introduce some of the major figures from Early Church history to a wider audience, especially to those with no previous background in the subject.
After enjoying an excellent (if rather prolonged) classical education in Caesarea in Palestine, Alexandria and Athens, Gregory (c.330 – 390) seemed set on a gentlemanly life of ascetic retirement and contemplation on his family’s extensive estate.
Events, however, dictated a different course of action and in the turmoil of the 4th century Arian controversy, Gregory was (forcibly!) ordained priest and then bishop before being called to Constantinople. The struggles of a sensitive man, with a penchant for solitude, being pressed into public service, is a recurrent theme in Gregory’s writing.

Whilst at Constantinople, Gregory composed and delivered his five Theological Orations which have come to be seen as a classic statement and defence of Trinitarian orthodoxy. His efforts in this field earned him the title of “The Theologian” – a recognition which he shares with only two others in the tradition of the Orthodox Church.
Course Outline
The course will outline the life and work of St Gregory, the sensitive bishop, ascetic and friend of St Basil the Great. Particular attention will be paid to the structure and content of the Theological Orations. In addition, we will also consider Gregory’s understanding of the process and final goal of salvation - “theosis” (deification).
The course will be divided into several sessions, with breaks for refreshments, each session consisting of a period of teaching with time for questions. There will also be a break at midday to allow for a lunch break and time for reflection in the Convent grounds.
Excerpts from St Gregory’s writings will be provided as handouts on the day, the intention being not merely to provide stock quotations, but rather inspirational texts - “catalysts” for your own spiritual journey.
Please note: Tea & coffee (and nice biscuits) will be provided during the breaks, but you will need to make your own arrangements for lunch.
Who is the course aimed at?
Anyone who’s read this far and is still interested!
Do I need to know any history/theology?
Absolutely not! The course assumes a complete lack of previous knowledge, experience or study. Although naturally this wouldn’t do any harm. However, clergy, lay readers or others with some knowledge will still find much of interest.
Speaker
Russell Jefford has been fascinated with the Early Church period for a number of years - an interest which led to him recently taking an MA in Patristics (Early Church history & theology) at King’s College London.
He sees much in the writings of the Early Church Fathers (especially the Eastern Fathers) which is inspirational and of relevance to contemporary Christianity. This course is one of a series attempting to spread that inspiration further afield.

This course is currently scheduled for the following dates/locations:
None! Sorry, this course is not in the calendar for the immediate future. If you'd like to lobby for it to be repeated, please use the Get in Touch form.

Icon of St Gregory of Nazianzus
St Gregory of Nazianzus is the subject of one of the icons I've commissioned. To take a look, click here.

Suggestions for further reading
See the Reading Room section of the website for:

Inspirational extracts from some of St Gregory of Nazianzus' works
Books about St Gregory of Nazianzus
Books containing his work in English translation