MISSION

The basic mission of the OAC is to promote dialogue and to be a bridge between Orthodoxy and the world. In this context of dialogue, the OAC facilitates, as a way of thinking and living, self-reflection, interpersonal reconciliation, and a responsible relation with the Divine Creation. Based on the platonic tradition of “symphilosophein” (philosophising together), and on the Orthodox Christian spirit of ecumenical openness, the Academy does not set boundaries, nor restrictions in that dialogue. As an offer from the Church to modern man, it always remains accessible to all creeds and welcomes every one without discrimination.

With the organisation of conferences and a variety of other activities, the OAC encourages mutual understanding and solidarity on an inter-Orthodox, interfaith, intercultural and interscientific basis, in order to contribute to the reconciliation of peoples, the consolidation of peace, and human progress. Although most of the conferences are organised by the OAC, it cooperates with other institutions and organisations that want to use the facilities and long experience of the OAC, and who seek a tranquil atmosphere for creative work and fellowship.

LOCATION

Crete is a region of Greece, and the southernmost part of the European Community. Crete is divided into four prefectures:Chania, Rethymnon,Heraklion and Lasithi.
The distance to the city of Chania (or Hania) from the OAC is 22 km and 39 km to its international airport Ioannis Daskalogiannis.
Chapel

The chapel of the OAC is dedicated to the Saints Kyrillos and Methodios, brothers from Thessaloniki, the Enlightners of the Slavs. The architect is Manos Perakis and the icon painter is Spyros Kardamakis. The large icon of the Holy Trinity (Philoxenia of Abraham) is a replica of the well-known icon by Andreij Rubljov (14th c). It was a gift to the OAC by the Patriarchate of Moscow (1979, by Patriarch Alexios
The small icons of the Holy Apostles were stolen – by an art-lover, perhaps?! – and mailed back three years later. Saints Kyrillos and Methodios are celebrated on the 11th of May. On the eve of that day, before Vespers, a special meeting takes place each year, concerning church mission.

FUNDING

The Orthodox Academy of Crete is a recognised public-interest institution; it receives very little funding or subsidies from the state.

It does not have enough assets and income to fully cover its operating expenses. Main sources of income are revenues from the conference centre and donations from its many friends and supporters.

The annual accounts are audited by the Ministry of Finance, and published in the daily press.

The work of the OAC can be extended and become more effective with the financial support of those who appreciate its effort. Contributions to the OAC's current work may be remitted to the bank account of the OAC:
BANK OF CHANIA
Account no: 113505004
IBAN: GR20 0690 0080 0000 0011 3505 004, BIC: STXAGRA1

ADMINISTRATION

The OAC is administered by a 9 member board, under the Presidency of the Metropolitan of Kisamos and Selinon Ampilochios and under the direction of its general director Dr. Konstantinos S. Kenanidis