The Missions Institute of Orthodox Christianity at Hellenic College Holy Cross hosted a conference on March 3 and 4, 2026 exploring the life and legacy of Archbishop Anastasios, a leading figure in contemporary Orthodoxy known for his commitment to interfaith understanding, evangelical outreach, and ecumenical reconciliation. Speakers included Mission Center representatives: Executive Director Dr. Nathan Hoppe, Ph.D., former director Fr. Martin Ritsi, Missionary Gabriela Hoppe, former missionary and current Parish Engagement Coordinator Anastasia Barksdale, and Board Members Fr. Luke Veronis and Fr. John Parker.  

With a focus on “Anastasios as Educator,” Nathan reflected on His Beatitude’s three pillars for education and missionizing: deep and consistent immersion in the Holy Scriptures; leading a life of prayer; and taking action.  Nathan also noted one of Archbishop Anastasios’s oft-said adages: “I don’t want servants, I want collaborators,” and he emphasized the Orthodox faithful’s need to make missiology a core part of the Church’s identity.   

“His Beatitude was an academic, par excellence, but that was not the most important thing for him,” said Nathan during his presentation. “The most important thing to him was the transformation of people… My greatest education in life and formation was being close to Archbishop Anastasios.”