Orthodox Christianity
Constitution
Aims
1. Community and pastoral support To bring together Orthodox Christian students, and Orthodox enquirers at UoS in order to foster a supportive community, strengthen spiritual life, and provide mutual encouragement in faith and practice during university life. 2. Spiritual formation and worship life To support members in deepening their Orthodox Christian life through prayer, study, and participation in the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church, including facilitating access to local parishes, clergy, and Orthodox resources where possible. 3. Education and outreach To introduce the Orthodox Christian faith to students of all backgrounds who are interested, through respectful discussion, accessible teaching, and open events that present Orthodox Christianity as a living, historic, and spiritually grounded tradition. 4. Representation and inclusion To represent Orthodox Christian students within the University community, helping ensure that Orthodox students feel welcomed, included, and able to practise their faith with dignity and confidence. (This is not a society for 'Cultural Orthodoxy', rather it is tailored for those genuine on learning and participating in the Orthodox Christian conviction.
Existence
As per the Fathers of Nicea, 'We believe in One Holy Catholic (Universal), Apostolic Church. The greek term ὀρθοδοξία (orthodoxía) in the context of the Church, means one that is unchanged, continuous, pre-denominational, and solely possesses the fullness of truth. As per Christs commandment to love one another (John 13:34), our society exists to love all, and also provide a home for the Orthodox and enquirers. The Society exists to meet a clear pastoral and community need within the UoS. Many Orthodox Christian students arrive at university away from their home, family, and established faith networks. Without a local Orthodox community, students experience isolation, reduced participation in Church life, and difficulty sustaining spiritual discipline alongside academic and social pressures. The Society therefore provides a consistent point of connection, friendship, and support, enabling Orthodox students to meet others who share their faith and to grow together spiritually. The Society also exists because Orthodox Christianity remains relatively unfamiliar to many students. By Gods providence, there is a boom in numbers of people curious about true Christianity but may not have encountered the Orthodox tradition in an informed or welcoming setting. By hosting open.educational, and hospitable events, the Society aims to serve the wider university community by offering a clear introduction to Orthodoxy, encouraging thoughtful dialogue, and responding to sincere interest with respect and care. In doing so, the Society contributes both to the wellbeing of Orthodox students and to the University’s wider culture of understanding, community, and inclusion. - This Society consists of Orthodox from both the Chalcedonian, and Non-Chalcedonian traditions.