On Monday, Orthodox theology students in Bucharest honoured Saint Catherine, the patron saint of the Chapel of the Faculty of Orthodox Theology.
The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by His Grace Patriarchal Auxiliary Bishop Varlaam of Ploiești, Secretary of the Holy Synod, along with an assembly of clergy who are also faculty members.
“On behalf of His Beatitude Patriarch Daniel, we convey a blessing and encouragement to the professors, students, master’s candidates, and doctoral candidates of the Faculty of Orthodox Theology in Bucharest,” said His Grace.
He highlighted Saint Catherine as an inspiring model for students: “Saint Catherine, a wise young woman from an influential family in Alexandria, Egypt, is known for her wisdom, steadfast faith, and ultimate sacrifice for Christ. She reminds us of the eternal reward that awaits those who remain faithful to Christ, the Conqueror of death.”
The bishop also offered a blessing: “We wish the students guidance from Saint Catherine, help from God, and discernment so that amidst the distractions of daily life, they remain focused on the pursuit of eternal life, as exemplified in the Gospel.”
Fr. Cosmin Pricop, the faculty dean, expressed gratitude to the bishop: “Thank you for joining us today as the representative of His Beatitude Patriarch Daniel on this beautiful and significant occasion. This university chapel is an integral part of our faculty, complementing the theoretical knowledge gained in courses and seminars with practical spiritual experience.”
He emphasized the importance of the chapel in theological education: “All of us are connected to this church and to the Great Martyr Saint Catherine, who has guided us—whether as current faculty or former students seeking her intercession in times of need. This chapel enriches theological studies by uniting theoretical and practical aspects, which must work together.”
Gabriel Negescu, a fourth-year Pastoral Theology student and Vice President of the Orthodox Theology Students’ Association, delivered the sermon.
The service concluded with a memorial for the chapel’s founders, benefactors, professors, students, and faculty.
Photo: Basilica.ro / Raluca Ene
