Bishop Ignatie of Huși spoke to theology students in Iași on Thursday about the art of dialogue, drawing insights from Saint Basil the Great.
His Grace celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Iași alongside Assistant Bishop Damaschin of Dorna of the Archdiocese of Suceava and Rădăuți. The day marked the feast of the Three Holy Hierarchs, considered the patrons of theological education.
The Art of Dialogue
Bishop Ignatie cited the teachings of Saint Basil the Great regarding what constitutes the art of dialogue:
“Let us strive not to use words unwisely, not to ask questions contentiously, nor to respond disrespectfully. Let us not interrupt when someone is sharing something useful, nor forcefully impose our views over others.
In short, let us maintain balance both in speaking and listening. Let us not be ashamed to continue learning, but also not keep knowledge to ourselves out of envy when others seek to learn.
When we are compelled to offer correction, we must always avoid being harsh, for only if we have first shown humility ourselves can we gently guide those in need of improvement.”
“This passage serves as a strong foundation for each of us to self-examine and reflect on our own manner of engaging in dialogue,” the bishop stated.
“How many times have we interrupted forcefully, lacking patience to let the other person complete their thought? The result of such self-reflection might be disappointing,” he added.
Ordination at the Theological Faculty
During the service, Deacon Gheorghe Mihalache, a faculty member, was ordained a priest for the Chapel of the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel at the Iași Faculty of Theology.
A Student’s Sermon on Discernment
As per faculty tradition, the sermon on the feast of the Three Holy Hierarchs is delivered by a theology student. This year, Adrian-Gabriel Ghilință, senior student, emphasized the model of discernment provided by the three saints.
“The Three Holy Hierarchs are living examples of discernment illuminated by divine grace. They not only recognized what is good and what is evil, but they lived in accordance with the Truth, which is Christ.”
“The triad of saints celebrated today also teaches us that discernment is not acquired instantly but is shaped through obedience to God’s will. Christ, the True Light, left us these words: ‘You are the light of the world.’ Let us therefore be enlightened, not through empty words, but through deeds that bear witness to the grace of the Holy Spirit!”
At the conclusion of the event, Fr. Prof. Cezar Hârlăoanu, Dean of the Faculty, expressed gratitude to all who participated in the celebration of the patrons of theological education.
Photo: Doxologia / Fr. Silviu Cluci
