Congratulations, ACTS Class of 2018!
Sunday, June 3rd, ACTS celebrated its second graduating class in Claremont, CA.
Joined by clergy members from throughout the diocese and blessed by the presence of
His Eminence Metropolitan Serapion, His Grace Bishop Youssef, His Grace Bishop
Abraham and His Grace Bishop Kyrillos, fourteen students of the Class of 2018 from
across the United States were presented with their Masters of Theological Studies,
doubling in size from the previous year.
As the keynote speaker, H.G. Bishop Youssef reflected on the importance of theological
training in students from all walks of life, emphasizing the need for “equipped Christian
leaders in this world”, those that are “...spiritually mature, and biblically and theologically
responsible.” Whether it be in the church, the classroom, the hospital or any other
professional setting, the study of theology “pertains to the whole of our lives, and must
shape and inform our thoughts and activities.” In his final charge to the Class of 2018,
His Grace encouraged them to continue in seeking knowledge and service, urging them
to “pour out your life and share it with others as our Lord Jesus Christ did. Let our lives
be a living testimony to His honor. With the training you have received, may God make
you His true and faithful witnesses.”