Welcome to Sophia Divinity School

Sophia Divinity School was founded in 1958 in California as a low residency, independent study seminary program for the religious training of all independent Catholic jurisdictions. Archbishop Herman Adrian Spruit, founder of the Catholic Apostolic Church of Antioch, was co-founder of the divinity school. He wrote: "An educational program initiated by the Catholic Apostolic Church of Antioch must not be only a school, but a movement in spirit that goes beyond the reason of the academy. It must nurture the roots of life with balanced rations of mysticism. Only mysticism sustains the vitality and reality of faith. Education nowadays is often an attempt to serve the status quo. It shall not be so with us. We will lead you into brighter horizons and out into greater fulfillment. We will share many treasures with you that will open new vistas into a better and finer life." 

Sophia Divinity School provides the opportunity for discernment of one’s call, and for those so called, educates individuals for ordained ministry. The divinity school also educates individuals seeking a degree for purposes other than ordination. The courses offered enrich the spiritual life of students, enhance their appreciation of the great spiritual traditions of the world, and promote global awareness of our human family relationships as a spiritual fellowship. Sophia is the Greek word for wisdom. Sophia Divinity School provides academic and spiritual resources for the international Independent Catholic movement with a focus on preparation for ministry in the Catholic Apostolic Church of Antioch. The Catholic Apostolic Church of Antioch provides the traditional catholic sacraments, maintains a progressive stance, and orients participants toward spiritual development. Our Continuing Education Program provides lifelong spiritual development for the broader Christian Movement.