On Saturday, May 20th, 2017, the Northeast American Diocese celebrated the graduation of five students from the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, as they successfully completed their programs of study from reputable institutions of theological and pastoral study. Of the five graduates, four belong to the Northeast American Diocese.
Four students graduated from St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary, Yonkers, New York:
- Rev. Fr. Timothy (Tenny) Thomas,, Master of Theology
- Rev. Dn. Thomas (Shawn) Thomas, Master of Theology
- Rev. Dn. Geevarghese (Bobby) Varghese, Master of Divinity
- Mr. George Ninan, Master of Divinity
Two students graduated from Fordham University, Bronx, New York:
- Rev. Fr. Timothy (Tenny) Thomas, Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Education
- Rev. Fr. Abraham (Abey) George, Master of Arts in Christian Spirituality
His Grace Metropolitan Zachariah Mar Nicholovos, shared of his immense joy over the graduation of these students and applauded them for their hard work. The Metropolitan especially commended the additional sacrifice taken up by the three graduates who successfully completed advanced theological studies.
His Grace shared of his hope that more of our clergy and laity will pursue further theological education to effectively enhance the ministries of the Church. The Diocese conveys its prayers and best wishes to the new graduates!