PATRISTIC SUMMER SCHOOL & ICON PAINTING 2026

6–11 July 2026
Discover the beauty of the early Church, deepen your faith, and learn the sacred art of iconography at this unique week-long summer programme.

Organised by the St Ephram Academic Center for Oriental & Occidental Studies in collaboration with the ITI Catholic University (Austria), this inspiring event brings together renowned scholars and experienced teachers for a rich programme of study, prayer, and artistic formation.
📖 Morning Sessions (Monday–Friday | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Reading the Fathers of the Church

Led by:

Pd. Dr. Fr. Ephram G. Lomidze
Prof. Dr. Michaela C. Hastetter

Fee: €100 (morning sessions only)
🎨 Afternoon Sessions (Monday–Friday | 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm)

Traditional Icon Painting

Immerse yourself in the spiritual tradition of writing icons while receiving expert guidance throughout the week.

Fee: €300 (includes both the morning Patristic Summer School and the full Icon Painting programme)
🌟 Free Evening Lectures

Tuesday | 8:00–9:30 pm
Icons between the Face-boom and Facelessness
Prof. Dr. Michaela C. Hastetter

Thursday | 8:00–9:30 pm
Icons in the Book of Kells
Fr. Vincent Twomey

Admission is free. Everyone is welcome.
✨ Closing Celebration

On Saturday, the programme concludes with a Divine Liturgy followed by the Blessing of the Icons, celebrating the week’s learning, prayer, and artistic work.

📩 Book your place or request more information:
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.step-wien.at

📍 The Newman Institute, Ballina, Co. Mayo

Whether you are a student of theology, an artist, a member of the clergy, or simply someone seeking a deeper appreciation of the Christian tradition, this is an exceptional opportunity to explore the wisdom of the Church Fathers and the sacred beauty of iconography.