Objectives
Founded on 26 June, 1965 by a group of scholars at a symposium in Paris, the prime objective of the International Association for Patristic Studies (I.A.P.S.) is to promote the study of Christian antiquity, especially the Fathers of the Church, without prejudice to work undertaken in this domain in various countries.
The I.A.P.S. also seeks to create contacts and mutual communication among persons qualified in patristic research.
The I.A.P.S. also strives to obtain for its members precise information regarding work planned or in progress by individuals or in different research centres, and to communicate such information through an annual Bulletin and a Directory of members (of which there are currently more than 600).
Membership
Recognized scholars in the field of patristics. They are presented for membership by another Full Member, or request membership on the basis of their publishing record. Full Members who have retired as professors or researchers retain their rights.
Anyone accepted by the Executive Committee may be admitted to membership.
Each member receives the Association's annual Bulletin and its biennial Directory.
The Oxford Conference
Every four years the International Conference on Patristic Studies takes place at the University of Oxford. During this conference, the Association's General Assembly elects its Executive Officers, whose term is four years. The last conference took place in August 2003.