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Metr. Saba Leads Annual Retreat for Antiochian Seminarians
Future Antiochian pastors began their year of formation with prayer, spiritual instruction, and fellowship under the guidance of Metr. Saba.
BOLIVAR, PA — Metr. Saba led the annual retreat for seminarians of the Antiochian Archdiocese at Antiochian Village from Aug. 17-19, gathering returning students and 16 incoming residential seminarians preparing for pastoral ministry.
The future pastors will begin studies this fall at St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, and Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology. The retreat opened with a supplication service to St. Raphael of Brooklyn, with Bp. Thomas joining Metr. Saba for the gathering.
Serving as the retreat speaker, Metr. Saba led two sessions focused on theology and the spiritual life. Drawing upon the teaching of St. Silouan the Athonite, he encouraged the seminarians to consider the difference between merely knowing about God and truly knowing God. A second, more interactive session invited participants to discuss how the teachings of the Holy Fathers and contemporary spiritual teachers can be lived and applied.
The retreat concluded Wednesday with Orthros and Hierarchal Divine Liturgy. Before departing, the seminarians received parish assignments for the coming academic year, where they will continue their formation by assisting experienced pastors and serving within local communities.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Teen SOYO celebrated 45 years of Special Olympics camp.
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