Blessing of the Waters Service at the Patriarchal Toronto Orthodox Theological Academy

On Tuesday, September 4th, 2018, classes commenced at the Patriarchal Toronto Orthodox Theological Academy (Canada). The Blessing of the Waters service was conducted at the Academy’s Chapel which is dedicated to St. John the Theologian. The service was led by the Dean of the Academy, the Very Reverend Fr. Athenagoras Ziliaskopoulos. The chanting was beautifully carried out by students of the Academy. This year, eight new students join the Academy as first-year students in the four-year program.

At the end of the service, the Dean conveyed the love and blessings of His Eminence Metropolitan Sotirios of Toronto (Canada), who was away attending the Synaxis of the Hierarchs of the Ecumenical Throne in Constantinople.

The Dean praised the wise and watchful guidance of the Metropolitan, the tireless efforts of the professors, and the cooperation and assistance received from both clergy and laity in support of the Academy. He reminded those present of the significance of the Academy’s status as a Patriarchal institution, along with the important role the Academy plays within the broader Orthodox landscape in Canada. Finally, Fr. Athenagoras expressed his tremendous joy at the increase in the number of students this year.

The Dean welcomed both new and old students to the new academic year, wishing them tremendous success in their studies. He exhorted them to perform their duties well, to seize the unique opportunity to grow spiritually throughout the year, and to not overlook their ultimate aim which is to one day serve the Holy Altar and the faithful people of God. To his fellow professors and brothers in Christ who faithfully serve the Academy, Fr. Athenagoras conveyed his best wishes for spiritual enlightenment and vigor. A breakfast for all participants was then served in the Academy’s dining room.

Additional information about the Patriarchal Toronto Orthodox Theological Academy can be found on the revamped website of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Toronto (Canada), www.gometropolis.org. For anyone interested in studying theology in a genuinely ecclesiastical environment, please submit a complete application by email at academy@gometropolis.org, or by fax at 1-416-429-4588. New applications are considered at the beginning of each semester.

Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Toronto (Canada)

Under the Jurisdiction of the Ecumenical Patriarchate