Celebrating 
the Beginning of the New Academic Year 2002-2003

at St. John of Damascus Faculty of Theology - University of Balamand

Monday Evening, September 30, 2002

 In the occasion of the new Academic Year 2002-3, the service of Great Vespers was celebrated at the Church of Our Lady of Balamand at 7:00 PM, September 30, 2002. The Vespers was followed by the Service of the Blessing of Water. His Eminence Metropolitan Elias (Kurban) presided  over both services in the presence of His Eminence Metropolitan Boulos (Bandali) and the Dean, His Grace Bishop Youhanna (Yazigi), the students, faculty members and staff of the Institute, along with other dignitaries: Dr. George Nahas, representing His Excellency Dr. Elie Salem, President of the University of Balamand (being out of the country), Deans and Directors of the University of Balamand, Mr. Elias Bou Chahine, Member of the University Board of Trusties, Mr. Salim Bitar, Director of Balamand High School, with many other friends and alumni of Balamand. 

After welcoming the new students, His Eminence Metropolitan Elias (Kurban) spoke about the important role of the Institute since its inception in educating and preparing all the church workers of the Antiochian Church in the east and the diaspora. 

Afterward, everyone was invited to a festal dinner at the Institute. The Dean Bishop John thanked everyone for their love in preapring this meal and organizing this event. He asked the Lord to bless this New Academic Year and stenghten the students in their Academic pursuits and spiritual life.

 


His Eminence Metropolitan Elias (Kurban) 
Presiding over the Service of Vespers 

His Eminence Metropolitan Elias (Kurban) 
Presiding over the Service of the Blessing of Water. 
Also in the picture: Metropolitan Bendali and Bishop Yazigi

 

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