Today (Wednesday), H.H. Pope Tawadros II attended, at the theatre adjoining the Papal Residence in Alexandria, the graduation ceremony for those who had completed the Diploma in Biblical Studies and the specialised Diploma in Theology programmes at the Clerical College in Alexandria.

The ceremony included a number of speeches and presentations. It began with an address by H.G. Bishop Pavly, General Bishop for the Churches of the Montaza Sector and Head of the Biblical Studies Department at the College, in which he spoke about how the knowledge acquired through study can be applied in the service of the nation and society.

This was followed by a speech by Hegumen Andrawes Matta, Dean of the College, who welcomed Pope Tawadros and expressed his gratitude for His Holiness’ support and encouragement of in-depth theological education, as well as his care for preparing a knowledgeable and influential generation of leaders and servants. He also presented an overview of the specialised programmes offered by the College.

The ceremony also included a documentary on the activities of the students of the Diploma in Biblical Studies throughout the academic year, featuring some of their graduation projects. Another report was presented by graduates of the various specialised diploma programmes, sharing their views and suggestions for the further development of the specialised diploma courses.

His Holiness then addressed the gathering, offering his congratulations to the graduates. He reflected on the verse:

“But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place.” (2 Corinthians 2:14)

Pope Tawadros pointed out that the procession of the Church began with Saint Mark the Apostle and is filled with saints and martyrs.

His Holiness emphasised that meaningful and enjoyable study may be summarised in three points:

-A Talent: It is an opportunity granted to you in the various fields of knowledge and life; therefore, you must invest it and bear fruit.
-A Responsibility: It entails continual growth in the acquisition of knowledge, as well as teaching and putting that knowledge into practice.
-Life and Service: Knowledge must be continually offered and applied. Deepening one’s understanding requires ongoing learning, which must be translated into life and service in a balanced manner.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Pope Tawadros honored the graduates.

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