Welcome Distinguished Speakers

Presvytera Jeannie Constantinou, PhD

Presvytera Jeannie Constantinou is a renowned Orthodox Christian theologian, author, speaker, and educator whose work has inspired thousands to deepen their understanding of Scripture and live their faith more intentionally. She holds a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies from the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California, and has devoted her career to helping people discover the timeless wisdom of the Orthodox Christian tradition.

Known for her engaging and accessible teaching style, Presvytera Jeannie bridges the gap between ancient faith and modern life, offering practical insights for navigating today's challenges with spiritual clarity and purpose. She is the bestselling author of Thinking Orthodox: Understanding and Acquiring the Orthodox Christian Mind and the host of the popular Search the Scriptures and Search the Scriptures LIVE! programs on Ancient Faith Ministries.

As keynote speaker for the Women's Retreat, Presvytera Jeannie will invite participants to explore how Orthodox spirituality can bring peace, strength, and hope amid the demands and distractions of everyday life.

Amelia Bartholomew , MD, MPH, FACS

Dr. Amelia Bartholomew is a physician, educator, researcher, and faithful Orthodox Christian whose work has been dedicated to healing, service, and the advancement of medical science. She serves as Professor of Surgery and Bioengineering at the University of Illinois Chicago, where she is Chief of Translational Research and Director of Medical Student Surgical Education. She earned her medical degree from Northwestern University, completed fellowship training in transplant surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital, and holds a Master of Public Health degree from Harvard Medical School.

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Bartholomew has been recognized internationally for her contributions to transplantation, regenerative medicine, stem cell research, and medical education. Her passion for caring for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—has shaped both her professional and personal life.

As a speaker, Dr. Bartholomew brings a unique perspective that integrates faith, wellness, resilience, and purpose. Drawing upon decades of experience in medicine, research, leadership, and Orthodox Christian life, she encourages others to cultivate strength, peace, and hope amid the challenges of modern living.

Anna Kallis, MDiv.

Anna Kallis is a dedicated Orthodox Christian educator and youth ministry leader with extensive experience developing programs, retreats, and faith formation opportunities for youth and young adults throughout the Orthodox Church.

She currently serves as Project Director of TelosGamma, an initiative of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago focused on strengthening young adult ministry, and as Assistant Director of Lighthouse, the Metropolis' camping ministry. Anna is a graduate of Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, where she earned her Master of Divinity degree with an emphasis in Religious Education and Youth Ministry.

Throughout her ministry, Anna has been passionate about helping individuals cultivate a living and active faith. She previously served in leadership roles with the CrossRoad Summer Institute, including Assistant Director and Director, where she mentored and guided young Orthodox Christians as they explored vocation, purpose, and spiritual growth. She also remains actively involved in the youth ministries of Saints Peter and Paul Greek Orthodox Church in Glenview, Illinois.

Known for her warmth, authenticity, and practical approach to faith, Anna encourages others to discover Christ's presence in the midst of everyday responsibilities and life's many demands.

Amy Tsarwhas, Moderator