In September, Fr. Fadi Rabbat, Academic Dean of the Antiochian House of Studies (AHOS), embarked on an enriching journey to Greece and Lebanon, visiting several ecclesiastical figures, academic leaders, and promoting the efforts of AHOS. His mission was not only to strengthen ties between the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America and the Greek-speaking world but also to further the academic standing of AHOS. Here’s a summary of his significant engagements, achievements, and moments of fellowship during his travels.
A Journey of Faith and Fellowship
Fr. Fadi’s recent travels to Greece and France provided opportunities for both ecclesiastical and academic growth. His time in Greece was especially significant, marked by high-profile meetings and key achievements for the Antiochian House of Studies (AHOS). These engagements contributed to the strengthening of relationships between AHOS and prominent figures within the Orthodox Christian community.
Promoting the Antiochian House of Studies (AHOS)
One of the key objectives of Fr. Fadi’s trip was to promote the work of AHOS. As the Academic Dean, he proudly shared that the Antiochian House of Studies has been officially recognized by the Greek Ministry of Education. This places AHOS on par with renowned theological schools in Athens and Thessaloniki, a testament to the institution’s academic standing and the hard work of all those involved.
This milestone enhances AHOS’ international reputation, opening doors for future collaboration, student exchange programs, and greater integration into the global Orthodox academic community.
Meetings with Leading Ecclesiastical Figures
Fr. Fadi’s trip included meaningful encounters with key ecclesiastical leaders. These meetings helped to strengthen the ties between the Antiochian Patriarchate and the Orthodox Church in Greece. Some of the prominent figures Fr. Fadi met included:
- His Beatitude Ieronymos II, Archbishop of Athens and All Greece
- His Eminence Eugenios, Archbishop of Crete
- His Eminence Hierotheos Vlachos, Metropolitan of Nafpaktos and Saint Blasios
- His Eminence Kyrillos Katerelos, Metropolitan of Krinis (Patriarchate of Constantinople)
These interactions highlighted the shared history, mutual respect, and collaboration between the Antiochian and Greek Orthodox churches.
Cross Award Presentation on Behalf of AHOS
In recognition of their contributions to Orthodoxy and theological education, Fr. Fadi, on behalf of the Antiochian House of Studies, presented the Cross Award to the following esteemed leaders:
- His Beatitude Ieronymos, Archbishop of Athens and All Greece
- His Eminence Hierotheos Vlachos, Metropolitan of Nafpaktos and Saint Blasios
- His Eminence Kyrillos Katerelos, Metropolitan of Krinis
- His Eminence Grigorios Papathomas, Metropolitan of Peristeri
These awards symbolize AHOS’s appreciation for their support and partnership in advancing Orthodox Christian education. Additionally, Fr. Fadi, who holds a PhD in Canon Law, was personally invited by Metropolitan Papathomas, President of the International Society of Canon Law, to join this esteemed organization, further highlighting his expertise and growing influence in the field.
Strengthening Academic Collaborations
Fr. Fadi’s efforts to promote the Antiochian House of Studies also extended to academic circles. He held meetings with professors and leaders from the University of Athens and other institutions to explore potential collaborations. Highlights include:
- Official recognition of AHOS by the Greek Ministry of Education.
- Agreement on creating joint courses and programs between AHOS and Greek theological schools.
- Invitations for AHOS to participate in international theological conferences, further solidifying its place as a leading academic institution.
Fr. Fadi also met with Professor Evangelos Protopapadakis, who will be teaching Bioethics at the Patriarchate’s Theological School in Balamand, Lebanon.
Pilgrimages and Spiritual Encounters
In addition to his academic and ecclesiastical engagements, Fr. Fadi took time to visit several significant religious sites, including:
- The Holy Monastery of Saint Patapios in Corinth, where he venerated the incorrupt relic of Saint Patapios.
- The Holy Church of Saint Andrew in Patras, where he paid respects to the relic of the Apostle Andrew.
- The Monastery of Gerokomeio, where he was received by the 88-year-old Abbot Symeon, a theologian and jurist.
These spiritual pilgrimages provided moments of personal reflection and an opportunity to deepen his connection to the Orthodox faith.
Strengthening Ties in France
During his stop in France, Fr. Fadi had the joy of reuniting with ecclesiastical leaders. His time there included a meaningful celebration with His Eminence, the Metropolitan of France, who warmly welcomed him. These interactions not only deepened ecclesiastical bonds but also fostered further cooperation between AHOS and the French Orthodox community.
Engagements in Lebanon: Faith and Fellowship
Fr. Fadi’s journey concluded in Lebanon, where he had several enriching meetings with local Metropolitans. These interactions strengthened ecclesiastical relationships and further promoted the work of the Antiochian House of Studies in the region.
Advancing the Mission of AHOS and Future Collaborations
Fr. Fadi’s visit was marked by significant achievements, deep spiritual connections, and important academic partnerships.His meetings with key leaders across Greece, France, and Lebanon have not only promoted the mission of AHOS but have also fostered stronger ties between Orthodox communities globally. His discussions with various leaders and institutions laid the groundwork for further collaboration between the Antiochian House of Studies and the broader Orthodox academic community. With new partnerships and joint programs on the horizon, the future looks bright for AHOS and its mission to educate and nurture Orthodox Christian leaders around the world.
Fr. Fadi is deeply grateful for the support and prayers of Metropolitan Saba, and looks forward to sharing more developments soon.
