Last updated 03.27.2025
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The Holy Great Fast
The Holy Great Fast is the most sacred fasting period in the Church, lasting 55 days in the Coptic tradition. It includes a Preparatory Week, 40 days of fasting in imitation of Christ (Matt. 4:2), and Holy Pascha Week leading to the Resurrection. Fasting has deep biblical roots—Moses fasted 40 days before receiving the Law (Ex. 34:28), Elijah fasted before encountering God (1 Kings 19:8), and Jesus fasted before beginning His ministry (Matt. 4:2). By the 4th century, Church fathers like St. Athanasius and St. Cyril of Alexandria affirmed this fast as a time for repentance, prayer, and spiritual renewal. True fasting goes beyond food—it is about purifying the heart and drawing closer to Christ.
Their Experience
Students Stories
Why HTC?
Academic Excellence
Our distinguished faculty come from renowned international institutions including University of Oxford, St. Andrews, Aberdeen, UCLA, Claremont, and University of Toronto, to name a few.
Distance Education
All of our programs are designed for distance learning and are especially built for working professional. Our study plans are carefully tailored with you and your family in mind.
Living Theology
We pioneer engaging with contemporary challenges through Eastern Christian wisdom and creating a dialogue between theology and our communities: where theology is not a theory but a lifestyle.
Support our Mission
At Agora University, we believe in the impact of Orthodox education — an experience that not only enlightens minds but also shapes souls. Our commitment to providing unique and impactful programs is made possible by the generosity of our donors.
Your contribution reaches far into the lives of our students, equipping them with the education they need to become leaders who make a positive impact in their communities.
Whether it’s funding scholarships for students, developing our academic programs, or growing our resources, your donation has the power to leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of our students.
Donate Now and join our mission towards preparing a generation of thoughtful, informed, and impactful leaders.
Support our Mission
At Agora University, we believe in the impact of Orthodox education — an experience that not only enlightens minds but also shapes souls. Our commitment to providing unique and impactful programs is made possible by the generosity of our donors.
Your contribution reaches far into the lives of our students, equipping them with the education they need to become leaders who make a positive impact in their communities.
Whether it’s funding scholarships for students, developing our academic programs, or growing our resources, your donation has the power to leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of our students.
Donate Now and join our mission towards preparing a generation of thoughtful, informed, and impactful leaders.
Empowering Minds
Meet the Faculty of Holy Transfiguration College
Michael Wingert, Ph.D.
Dean of Holy Transfiguration College & Associate Professor of Old Testament and Syriac Studies
Ani Shahinian, D.Phil.
Associate Professor of Armenian History and Theology
Fr. Mebratu Gebru, Ph.D.
Visiting Professor of Liturgical Theology
Fr. Jacob Joseph, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Christian Mission
Hear From Our Students
The keyword in our organization is “Community”
Worldwide Community
Agora University strives to maintain a close relationship between students and staff. Many members of our faculty are involved in discipling students during the academic years. Faculty members encourage students as they grow in their personal devotions, discuss things they are learning in class, and challenge them in areas where the students may be struggling. Students have ready access to any staff or faculty member and are encouraged to seek help both academically and personally