On June 11, 2025, the Latin Patriarchate Center for Spiritual Formation held its graduation ceremony for the Spring 2025 cohort at the Seminary of Beit Jala, under the patronage of Msgr. Giacinto-Boulos Marcuzzo. The ceremony brought together several priests, religious sisters, and the families of the graduates, all united in a joyful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
The event opened with welcoming remarks from project coordinator Mrs. Asal Salibi, who expressed heartfelt gratitude for the continued support of the Latin Patriarchate and the Seminary in advancing the center’s mission. She commended the dedicated role of the clergy in guiding and overseeing the spiritual courses, underscoring their essential contribution to the faith formation of the laity.
In his address, Msgr. Marcuzzo directed his speech to the graduates, saying: “May the Lord bless you so you may become a blessing to others. This is the beautiful meaning of our gathering here in this seminary.” He added emotionally, “I spent 24 years at this seminary before becoming a priest, and I am very happy to see it producing both clergy and laypeople deeply rooted in their faith and ready to serve the Church, society, and others.”
Fr. Bernard Poggi, Rector of the Seminary, also addressed the assembly, emphasizing the importance of hope and perseverance in following Christ. He shared his vision of seeing every Christian home become a living and vibrant part of the Church.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Mrs. Juliette Bannoura delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude and encouragement. She was followed by Mr. Louis Mikhail, who reflected on how the program had enriched his vocation as a tour guide. Mr. Shadi Daddas also shared moving insights into his spiritual journey through the programs offered at the Notre Dame Center in Jerusalem.
The event concluded with the distribution of certificates to approximately 170 graduates, marking the culmination of a fruitful academic year, during which nine spiritual courses were conducted, each comprising 18 hours, offered both at the Latin Seminary in Beit Jala and the Notre Dame Center in Jerusalem.
