Bomana, Port Moresby: A jubilant atmosphere filled the Catholic Theological Institute as parents, guardians and relatives came together to witness the 25th Graduation ceremony of the Catholic Theological Institute, Bomana.
The program had two parts; the graduation mass held at the Holy Spirit Seminary and the graduation ceremony held at the Karl Gastgeber Hall.
The Graduation Mass had as its theme: ‘Trust in the Lord’ with Archbishop John Cardinal Ribat MSC as the main celebrant.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Abogado OP reflected on the significance of ‘graduation’ with two themes by making reference to two gospel readings, ‘It is done’ - the creation story (Gen 1:1-31) and ‘It is finished’ - the early ministry of Jesus and his crucifixion (John 19:30).
“Looking at the themes: ‘It is done’ and ‘It is finished’, these come with a great sense of determination fulfillment. As students, you have to make a lot of sacrifices in order to get good grades. You spend long hours working on your assignments, working on group projects, and studying for your exams while balancing your personal lives as well by dealing with your own issues. Thus, many of you will agree that getting a degree is generally an exciting activity, for through it, your horizon is widened when you learn new things. But it is not to be denied that it can also be challenging, that is why graduates often feel a mixture of joy and sadness”, he said.
He congratulated the graduates on the hard work that they have put into their studies and
encouraged them to remind themselves of the sacrifices they have made during their years of study and to be ambassadors of God when they are out serving the people.
The graduation mass was followed by a brief graduation program at the Karl Gastgeber Hall that began with a procession of the graduands with lecturers and the invited guests led by the students’ singsing group.
Once the graduands were in their respective seats, the National Anthem was sung followed by welcome remarks from the SRC President Matthew Gona.
The Graduation Speech was given by the Dean of Studies from the Faculty of Sacred Theology at the University of Santo Tomas Rev. Dr. Jannel Abogado OP following the CTI President’s address by Rev. Dr. Zenon Szablowinski SVD.
The presentation of certificates which was the highlight of the program had Rev. Dr. Abogado OP and Dr. Blaise D. Ringor from the University of Santo Tomas, Philippines present Theology Awards and Philosophy Awards respectively.
Giving the speech on behalf of the Graduates was Clement Tarmat. He thanked the hardworking and dedicated staff of CTI who have been there for them every step of the way in their studies throughout the years and their families for their continuous support.
Parents, friends and distinguished guests witnessed 14 students receiving Theology awards, 21 students receiving Philosophy awards and 17 students receiving exit awards.
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