About

The Summer Institute of Theology at Hartwick College (SITHC for short) is a week-long ecumenical Christian education opportunity for everyone, offered each year at Hartwick College in Oneonta, NY.

SITHC is dedicated to nurturing and deepening faith by providing continuing education for those leading our congregations and personal enrichment for anyone, in an environment of fellowship and worship where individuals can grow spiritually and intellectually, fostering a deeper connection to their beliefs. Our mission is to help individuals strengthen their faith, build a solid foundation in Christian teachings, and apply these principles to their lives.

Seminars (2½ hours long) are offered at 9:00am Monday through Friday morning, and on Monday through Thursday at 2:30pm and 6:30pm. Daily worship is at 1:15 and will vary in style each day.

Educational topics in recent years have included worship, Biblical studies, pastoral care, church vitality, social justice, church history, spirituality, and perspectives on current events like immigration, political polarization, Palestine/Israel, and the Supreme Court.

SITHC originated as the Lutheran congregations’ training institute for laity called to congregational leadership, but over time has grown into an ecumenical program with participation from members of the Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic, Orthodox Church of America, Episcopal, and Assembly of God denominations. We like to think of ourselves as an adult “vacation Bible school” experience (without all the props and posters) — where people of different faith traditions who are interested in growing in faith can come together for fun, fellowship, and personal enrichment. Join us in this transformative journey of faith.