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10 men and women graduated from the Resurrection of Christ Theological Academy in a ceremony held Friday June 13th at the reception hall of the Myrrh-Bearing Women’s Skete, next to the Monastery of Shën Vlash.
Festivities for this day began with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy in the Church of Saint Vlash, followed by a breakfast with the students and their families.
His Beatitude Archbishop Anastasios of Albania, Metropolitan Ignatios of Berat, and Bishop Nikolla of Apollonia, presided over the Commencement Ceremony. They were joined by Bishop Andoni of Kruja, and Bishop Asti of Bylis, as well as the professors and families of the graduating students.
The ceremony began with a song performed by the Choir of the Academy. Then, Bishop Nikolla spoke to the students. Justina Dhima, the salutatorian, read a brief selection from the writings of Saint John Chrysostom. Then, Konstandina Rrasa, the valedictorian, presented her speech to the audience. When she finished, His Beatitude Archbishop Anastasios shared some words of encouragement to the students as they prepare for the next stage in their journey through life. The graduating class then received their diplomas. After the ceremony, everyone present ate a lunch together. During lunch, Metropolitian Ignatios and His Beatitude Archbishop Anastasios gave addresses to those present and everyone sang “Who is so Great a God.” We pray that those students will continue on the road that God has guided them and for success in their journey to glorify God.
Deacon Stephan Ritsi
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