2012-2013 Commencement Exercises - 05/19/13
Sunday, May 19, started with Divine Liturgy at Holy Resurrection Cathedral. Later that day St. Herman Seminary held its 40th Anniversary Commencement at St. Mary's School. The Very Reverend Archpriest John Jillions, Chancellor of the Orthodox Church in America, gave the commencement address. Then the Very Reverend Archimandrite David (Mahaffey), Administrator of the Diocese of Alaska, presented the awards to the seminarians. A Diploma in Orthodox Theology was bestowed upon Nathan Anderson, and Reader's Certificates were presented to Sergius Chocknok, John Kudrin, Nicholas Montiegel, Sergei Olsen III, and Leonty Wassilie. Mary Ann Khoury, Coordinator for Outreach Alaska, spoke about the mission of Outreach Alaska and presented Nathan with a final check from his sponsor parish as well as an icon. A banquet followed the commencement exercises, during which staff, community members, and students shared words and songs. Graduate Nathan Anderson gave a wonderful speech reviewing his growth while at seminary and sharing how individuals (e.g., family members, staff, and students) supported him through the years. Another special presentation was the singing of the first-year students, who as group have represented all vocal choir parts, a first for the seminary choir. The seminary choir performed, followed by a duet by David and Nathan. It was a wonderful commencement. Thank you to all who attended, who helped set up and clean up, and who helped prepare food. We are grateful for the generous support of our friends and benefactors for making it possible for those desiring to serve the Church in Alaska to receive the necessary training to fulfill their callings in life.