On February 5, students of the Ukrainian Catholic University were awarded graduate-level degrees. They received master’s degrees in Theology, Christian Pedagogy, History, and from the School of Journalism and Communications, Law School, and Institute of Leadership and Management.
Festivities began with a Hierarchal Divine Liturgy led by His Beatitude Sviatoslav, the Head and Father of the UGCC in the University Church of the Holy Wisdom of God.
“Today we thank God for each of you, for choosing UCU, and for our capability to serve you on your path to higher education, - His Beatitude Sviatoslav appealed to UCU alumni. – Now you go and serve your people with all that you have learned, what you know and can do. Be servants for your Motherland because we see that today there are so many who want to govern over our people”.
Fr. Bohdan Prach, rector of UCU in his speech urged the alumni not to be afraid and forge ahead, reaching out for those who are in need.
Fr. Ihor Boiko, rector of Holy Spirit Seminary wished graduates to put God first, no matter how hard a challenge might be and trust Him. Since when we trust our heart are filled with peace and joy.
A keynote speaker was the Father and Head of the UGCC, His Beatitude Sviatoslav - Grand Chancellor of UCU. He urged graduates to love their people and be patriots of their Motherland: "No matter where life takes you - be active, responsible children of your people. Even when the Lord calls you outside Ukraine, one day you will bring here everything you have gathered and learned. Collect in order to pay it forward is something what determines a true patriot”.
This year’s graduation ceremony was held in compliance with all quarantine requirements, thus parents and invited guests were able to follow the events online.