I am Derek John Power, currently in the process of completing my undergraduate studies at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA. The main project that I am presently working and refining on is a thesis analyzing Arvo Pärt's rendition of the "Canon of Repentance to our Lord Jesus Christ" entitled ''Kanon Pokajanen.'' In addition to using music analysis, I also use Orthodox spirituality and theology to conclude that the music that Pärt composed does reflect repentance as the Orthodox Church understands it. I will graduate - God willing - on [[May 15 May ]] 2005.

I was born on [[September 6 September]] 1982 in Great Falls, MT, USA and was raised in the United Methodist Church. Right before attending William and Mary, I had an interest in learning more about the Orthodox Church. On [[November 9 November]] 2002, I was received into the Orthodox Church - specifically at Ss. [[Constantine the Great|Constantine]] and [[Helen]] Greek Orthodox Church in Newport News, VA (hence the numbers in my username). My chrism name is Theodoros after St. [[Theodore the Studite]] and within the Church, I much prefer to be called Fedya (the Russian diminutive). I attend services primarily at Ss. Constantine and Helen, Newport News whilst in school and the [[Protection of the Holy Mother of God]] Orthodox Church in Falls Church, VA whilst at home.