The 2024 AHOS Graduation Ceremony was a momentous occasion that beautifully blended tradition, spiritual reflection, and academic recognition. Held in the Ajar Amphitheatre, the ceremony was a significant milestone for students, faculty, and the entire AHOS community.
The ceremony commenced with an Opening Procession, led by Fr. Fadi Rabbat, featuring a solemn Gospel reading and chanting that set a reverent tone for the event. This was followed by the National Anthem and a warm Opening Welcome from Fr. Elias G. Boulos, who expressed his pride in the graduates and gratitude to the faculty and families who supported them.
Rt. Rev. Bishop THOMAS then bestowed an Opening Blessing, invoking the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit on the graduates as they prepare to embark on their ministerial and academic futures. A special message from His Eminence Metropolitan SABA was also shared, offering words of encouragement and spiritual wisdom.
The ceremony featured the Troparion of Pentecost performed by the choir, symbolizing the unity and spiritual renewal of the graduates. This was followed by the President’s Message delivered by Fr. Michel E. Najim, who reflected on the journey of the graduates, highlighting their dedication, growth, and the importance of continuing their mission with faith and humility.
Fr. Fadi Rabbat, the Academic Dean, provided an insightful Dean’s Message, followed by a heartfelt speech from Dn. Justin Bosl, the MDiv Students’ Representative, who shared the collective experiences and aspirations of his fellow graduates.
The ceremony also included the Troparion of Dormition, a hymn that added a solemn and sacred atmosphere to the proceedings.
During the graduation ceremony, AHOS also expressed its deep gratitude for the invaluable support of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), which has played a pivotal role in helping the school attain accreditation and continually elevate its academic and organizational standards. We are especially thankful for the esteemed leaders: Dr. Frank Yamada, who
served as the keynote speaker, along with Dr. Emmanuel Naynadov and Dr. Lester Ruise.
The Troparion of St. Raphael of Brooklyn was then performed by the choir, honoring the legacy of one of the most beloved saints in the Orthodox tradition.
AHOS is profoundly grateful for the enduring contributions of its esteemed professors. In particular, we recognize the V. Rev. Father Joseph Antypas, whose tireless efforts since the school’s inception in 1980 have helped build this academic institution. As a distinguished professor of dogmatics, he has greatly shaped the theological foundation of our students.
We also honor the V. Rev. Father George Shalhoub, who has spent 35 years teaching, preaching, and igniting a flame within countless hearts and minds, guiding them toward the light of Christ.
Additionally, we acknowledge the V. Rev. Father Patrick Viscuso, who has vigorously taught canon law for 25 years, guiding and supervising students as they write their theses.
The ceremony’s most anticipated moment was the Conferment of Degrees, conducted by Fr. Michel E. Najim. As each graduate was called to the stage, they were presented with their degrees by Fr. Elias G. Boulos amidst applause from faculty, family, and friends.
AHOS extends its heartfelt congratulations to the following graduates:
PhD in Orthodox Studies
- V. Rev. Fr. Patrick B. O’Grady
- Dalia Tinawi
Master of Divinity (MDiv)
- Archdeacon Justin Bosl
- Fr. Cristián Sylva Cooper
- Michael Joseph Gavalas
Master of Pastoral Care and Counseling (MPCC)
- James M. Rossetti
Master of Theological Studies (MTS)
- Elias George Atallah
- Jerry Bradley, Jr.
- Sandra Milburn Edwards, D.D.S.
- Nabil Mounir Habib
- Dn. George Kaloroumakis
- Benjamin Page Lyda
- Bogdan Pantic
- Hanan Saman
- Scott (Sophrony) Strickland
- Mark Walker
- James Sheeley Wilcox
St. Stephen’s Certificate Program (SSC)
- Jeffrey D. Allamon Jr.
- Dexter Branscome
- Farris Yousef Dabis
- John deGrassie
- Mitchell D. Glassman
- Derek Matthew Holt
- Rev. Dn. Gary (Theophan) Ivins
- John Jelinek, IV
- Sirop Keshishian
- Fr. Paísios (Vinicius Dias Lima)
- George S. Miller
- Sean Mullins
- Jonathan David Schultz
- Arlin R. Troyer
The ceremony concluded with a Closing Blessing and Dismissal by Rt. Rev. Bishop THOMAS, who encouraged the graduates to carry forth the light of Christ in all their future endeavors. The event was brought to a close with the choir’s performance of the Troparion of The Holy Cross, a fitting end to a ceremony filled with faith, tradition, and joy.
This Graduation Ceremony was not just a celebration of academic success, but a powerful reminder of the enduring commitment to faith and service that defines the AHOS community.
To Watch the Ceremony Video:
Some photos from the Ceremony:
