Upon Fr. John S. Bakas’ retirement and in recognition and appreciation of his partnership in founding the Huffington Ecumenical Institute at LMU, his commitment to the Basil P. Caloyeras Center for Modern Greek Studies, and his teaching in the Theological Studies Department for more than 20 years, the Center established the Fr. John S. Bakas Scholarship with the support of former BCLA Dean Robbin Crabtree.
This endowed scholarship encourages innovative, interdisciplinary projects that deepen understanding of the Orthodox Christian tradition and its role in the contemporary world. It supports graduate and undergraduate research study in the fields of the Greek Orthodox tradition and spirituality, ecumenism, and the promotion of unity among the world's Christian Churches, as well as Hellenic culture as studied in the areas of religion, history, language and culture.
Scholarships will support research in areas including:
- Orthodox theology, liturgy, and patristic studies
- Ecumenical and interreligious dialogue
- Orthodox bioethics and contemporary moral issues
- Environmental theology and creation care
- Women in Orthodoxy and historical contributions
- Migration, diaspora, and global Orthodoxy
- Digital theology and Orthodoxy in modern society
- Canon law and ecclesial governance
- Peacebuilding, reconciliation, and conflict resolution
- Pastoral mental health, counseling, and spiritual care
- Byzantine chant, liturgical music, and sacred arts
- Monasticism and comparative monastic studies
- Social ethics, public theology, and human rights
- Iconography, sacred architecture, and Orthodox aesthetics
- Youth and emerging adult faith formation
Students pursuing projects in any of these areas are encouraged to apply. Awards may be used to support academic research, fieldwork, archival study, or community-based theological initiatives.
Applications open February 1st.
For details, eligibility, and deadlines, please contact the Director of the Caloyeras Center, Christina Bogdanou at christina.bogdanou@lmu.edu