These papers will not only be valuable resources in themselves to our library, but they will also help develop interest in the early Church among students, introduce those who receive the fund to serious historiographical research and promote academic excellence at our school.”
Waynesburg University student Nicholas Haushalter, a senior Christian mission major, recently completed and presented his scholarly research titled, “John Chrysostom and the Exposition of Scripture” as part of the Iona George Fund for Scholarship in Early Church History at Waynesburg University.
The Iona George Fund for Scholarship in Early Church History was created through a generous donation by Thomas George in honor and in memory of his aunt, Iona George, whose life of faith was a witness and example to him. The scholarship seeks to improve understanding of the first 400 years of the Christian church through research done and collected by Waynesburg University upperclassman, who will receive the scholarship over the years.
As part of his research, Haushalter completed an 80-page paper focused on Chrysostom and sources related to his work, which he presented to faculty members, peers and family Tuesday, Dec. 6.
“I started with reading a lot of background information in secondary sources: books on Chrysostom’s life and work, how other contemporaries interpreted scripture and ancient exegesis in general,” Haushalter explained of his research process. “After I was familiar with that material, I began reading Chrysostom’s homilies themselves. I also made use of academic journal articles to get the newest and best research from current scholars. In total, I used seven volumes of primary source material and around 55 secondary sources (books and articles).”
Through research completed by recipients like Haushalter, the vision of the scholarship is to create a scholarly library containing information on early church history. Haushalter’s research paper will be added as the first piece of collected works in the scholarly library, which will be accessible in Eberly Library and the President’s Office on campus.
“I couldn't be more excited about this scholarship opportunity going forward,” added Haushalter. “These papers will not only be valuable resources in themselves to our library, but they will also help develop interest in the early Church among students, introduce those who receive the fund to serious historiographical research and promote academic excellence at our school.”
The Iona George Fund for Scholarship in Early Church History provides an annual scholarship to one Waynesburg University student interested in studying and writing about the early history of the Christian church. In return for research done by the scholarship recipient, the scholarship covers tuition over a 12-month period.
“We are proud of the work our students have done and will continue to do through this scholarship initiative,” said Waynesburg University President Douglas G. Lee. “This is a substantial opportunity for students to not only grow and refine their skills academically through research but also gain a deeper understanding of the early Christian church and its leaders.”
