Already in the 19th century pioneer scholars investigated the issue of the beginning of theological courses in Kyiv in the Mohylian Academy. By the end of the 19th century there was general consensus that teaching of theology was included in the curriculum practically since the very beginnings of the «Latin schools». However, the researchers’ conclusions are challenged by informations coming directly from the inside of the corporation of the Mohylian professors. Indeed, a sermon delivered by Stefan Javors’kyi in Baturyn in 1697 makes it possible to establish beyond any doubt that the first officially approved, complete course of theology was not held by Joasaf Krokovskyi, as it was supposed before, but by Stefan Javorskyi. The sermon he delivered for the feast of the Epiphany in January 1697 is followed by a hitherto unpublished dedication to Ivan Mazepa where the preacher informs the Hetman that a full course of theology has been held by himself in the Mohylian College in that academic year. Javors’kyi also expresses his gratitude for the support given by Mazepa to the enterprice. The mentioned fact is confirmed by other sources which have been ignored by historians to this day.