On Sunday, May 24, Holy Trinity Seminary held its 67th Commencement, which marked the end of the 2014-15 academic year and the conclusion of seminary studies for the graduating class of 2015. His Eminence, Metropolitan Jonah (OCA; retired), led the Hierarchical All-Night Vigil and Divine Liturgy. During the 6th Hour, Metropolitan Jonah tonsured 4th-year student Stanislav Matveev a reader.

Upon conclusion of the Liturgy, Metropolitan Jonah delivered a sermon about the experience of God. He said that everlasting life begins here and now by experiencing the love of God on earth. The only place to find our true self is to get beyond our ego and participate in the living experience of grace. Metropolitan Jonah charged the community to become vessels of the Holy Spirit and to spread that love, which can only be found in the Orthodox Church.

Commencement ceremonies officially began with a procession to the Holy Trinity Cathedral, where a thanksgiving moleben was led by Metropolitan Jonah, co-served by monastery clergy and seminary alumni.

After the moleben, all proceeded to the seminary hall, where the Commencement exercises were opened by the seminary rector, Archimandrite Luke (Murianka). Metropolitan Jonah delivered the Commencement address, stressing the importance of acquiring God’s grace first, and always to remember one’s own salvation.

Following the address, the degrees of Bachelor of Theology were awarded to the graduating class: Reader John Martin (Summa Cum Laude), Stojanche Andov, Ilija Petrov. Awards for academic excellence were given to students Reader Seth Davidenko (1st year), Novice Angelos (2nd year), Pablo Lopez (3rd year), Reader Stanislav Matveev (4th year), Reader John Martin (5th year). Awards for academic diligence went to Reader Johannes Sanjaya and Stojanche Andov.

After the conclusion of the Commencement ceremonies, guests enjoyed an outdoor reception for the graduates on the monastery lawn.