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STUDIUM THEOLOGICUM SALESIANUM
The Salesian Pontifical University's Jerusalem Campus of the Faculty of
Theology, Studium Theologicum Salesianum (STS) carries on the academic
tradition of the former Salesian Centre for Theological Studies established in
Bethlehem (1929), then transferred to Tantur (1949), to Cremisan (1957)
and to Jerusalem in September 2004. It is located a short 20 minute walk from
the Old City of Jerusalem.
The goal of the STS is to promote the study of a deeper understanding of the
mystery of Christ, as proposed by divine revelation and as interpreted by the
teaching authority of the Church. This study centre aims particularly at the
theological formation of candidates to the priesthood.
The STS offers a four-year Pontifical Bachelor's Degree in Theology. The
STS follows a two semester system (September-January and February-June).
In addition to students who do the regular four-year degree program, STS
welcomes students who want to study a selection of courses in theology. The
lay and religious students and faculty come from various religious orders and
congregations and rites within the Catholic Church. You can get to know us
better at www.jerusalem.unisal.it. We also have a well furnished,
computerized library containing over 36,000 volumes and close to 100
periodicals in various languages - the majority being in English, Italian and
French. You can check our library catalogue on our website.
You can contact us at secretary@jerusalem.unisal.it
CONTENTS
President's Message
03
News
04
Seminars and Conferences 08
Book Presentations
09
Masters Degree
10
STS Graduates
11
Closing of Academic Year
17
Departing Professors
19
Art of Celebrating Liturgy
20
New Book
22
www.jerusalem.unisal.it
02| June 2015
President’s Message
Dear Friends,
This year, the Studium Theologicum Salesianum is blessed to have ten graduates who will be ordained priests and
work in ten different countries. We congratulate each of them and wish them well for the work they will be entrusted in
the vineyard of the Lord.
We thank all our friends and well-wishers for their support and encouragement throughout this year. You can read in
the pages of this newsletter the STS activities carried out in the past months. The coming months are going to provide
opportunities to balance our intellectual efforts with pastoral experience. The new academic year will begin in the third
week of September.
KEEP LEARNING!
At the beginning of the current academic year, we reflected on the importance of learning to say, “I don't know”. The
humility to say, “I don't know” is a prerequisite for learning. When one realizes that one does not know something,
there is usually an effort to learn more. It propels one to engage in study and discussion. However, in the search for
knowledge and truth, the desire to learn should be accompanied by a keen eye for details. This means going beyond
appearances to investigate our current knowledge with care. If we stop learning and searching, thinking that we already
know everything that is there to know, we stand the risk of missing the great opportunities of life.
In the Gospels, we have examples of obstinacy to go beyond one's current knowledge.
When Jesus says he is come down from heaven, they refuse to believe based on their current knowledge. “They said, 'Is
not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How does he now say, 'I have come down from
heaven? (Jn 6:42).
Another similar situation is presented when the people reject Jesus in his own city because they think they know all
about him. “Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph
and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?' And they took offence at
him: But Jesus said to them, 'A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house' (Mt
13:55-57).
The apostle Nathaniel (Bartholomew) was a contrast to this. His current knowledge told him that nothing good could
come from Nazareth (cf. Jn 1:45-46)! Nevertheless, he was willing to go and check. That changed his life. He met God
in Jesus.
The second attitude to cultivate is to use our knowledge for our own good and salvation and to help others.
In the Gospels, we find examples of people who are experts, who prefer to remain as pure experts without taking the
great opportunity to meet and experience God. When the wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, King Herod
called together the chief priests and scribes of the people who were experts and were able to clearly indicate Bethlehem
as the place where the Christ, the messiah was to be born.
The magi were the truly wise men. They were experts too. However, they did not stay with their knowledge, but sought
help to move forward. They consulted Herod and his wise men. Their search changed their lives. They met God in
Jesus.
Let us imitate Nathaniel who challenged his current knowledge and through personal experience of the truth was
transformed. Let us imitate the magi who were also transformed by their search and encounter with the truth. Let us
grasp every opportunity for learning. Let our learning lead us to meet and recognize God in our daily experiences and
to reach out to help those around us.
Rev. Dr Biju Michael, SDB
President/Principal
Studium Theologicum Salesianum
Salesian Pontifical University, Faculty of Theology, Jerusalem Campus
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NEWS
MEETING WITH THE GREEK
ORTHODOX PATRIARCH
Report by Br. Javier Orengo, SDB
On the morning of March 12, 2015, the staff and
student body of the STS made a very special visit to the
Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem to interact
with the Patriarch, his Beatitude Theophilos III. We
had the chance to see the beautiful interior residence of
the Patriarch. The Successor of St. James, the first
Bishop of Jerusalem personally received us. His
Beatitude took more than two hours to give us an
elaborate history and the importance of the Greek
Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem. It was a great
honor and enlightening to listen to the frank
expressions of “the Patriarch” who is the also the head
of the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulcher founded by
Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine.
According to his Beatitude Theophilos III, the
Patriarchate of Jerusalem has witnessed and endured
countless changes in the course of the history of the
Holy City for the past 2,000 years. Through the
relentless efforts and diplomacy of the Greek
Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, constant
Christian presence has been guaranteed in the Holy
Land. The Covenant of Umar agreed between Caliph
Umar ibn al-Khattab and the Patriarch Sophronius of
Jerusalem in 637 assured the safety of Christians
during the time of Muslim rule of the Holy City. “The
Patriarchate” showed us a copy of that Covenant. The
Patriarchate, his Beatitude added, “has always acted
timely and successfully in defending and safeguarding
the Holy places in the Holy Land”. Through the many
different occupations of the Holy Land, the
04| June 2015
Patriarchate has fervently provided both pastoral and
economic care for its Christian communities
throughout the territories of modern day Israel,
Palestine and Jordan.
In the present time, the Patriarchate continues to be an
important Christian institution, respected by the state
of Israel and Palestine. It is a point of reference for the
welfare of the Holy Places and the Old City of
Jerusalem. It serves as a “buffer zone” in the
relationship between Israel and Palestine. The
Patriarchate is engaged in ecumenical reflection with
the Latin Church. Overall, it has preserved the
tradition and cultural heritage of Christians in the
Middle East.
Having schooled us on the historicity of the
Patriarchate, his Beatitude gave room for questions
and further interactions.
He answered several
questions regarding the structure and function of the
clerical system of the Patriarchate, the challenges of
ecumenical dialogue and the plight of Christians in the
Middle East in the wake of current persecutions.
At the end of the encounter, Bro. James Raj and Fr.
Biju Michael, the President of the STS, expressed their
profound appreciation to the Patriarch on behalf of the
STS. Both guest and host exchanged gifts. The
Patriarch generously gave each student a beautiful
icon of our Blessed Mother.
Altogether, our
experience with the Patriarch has helped us
enormously and given us the needed material for a
continual reflection on the importance of ecumenical
dialogue in the wider perspective. It was indeed a real
treasure to have had a direct contact with such an
important Christian tradition, the Greek Orthodox
Church, here in the Holy Land.
At the time the refugees
received help from the UNO.
The condition of the people in
the camp is an eye sore. They
live in congested space and
receive intermittent supply of
water and electricity. The
water they receive is said to
be of poor quality resulting in
the upsurge of water relateddiseases such as diarrhea,
abdominal pains among
others. We gathered that the
general economic poverty
evident in the camp, coupled
with political related
problems endanger the lives
of the refugees of the Camp
all the time. By political
A VISIT TO SOME REFUGEE
CAMPS IN PALESTINE
regulations, the refugees are restricted from
moving outside Palestine, we further learned.
Report by Carmel Myrthong
Notwithstanding the precarious situations, we
were informed that the refugees, not being utterly
discouraged, work hard to make ends meet. They
strive within their limits to educate their kids and
to forge ahead in life.
The students of the Studium Theologicum
Salesianum, Jerusalem Campus, had the rare
opportunity to visit some Palestinian Refugee
Camps. In two groups, the students and staff were
led by residents of the camps, through the AIDA
and Dheisheh camps in Palestine on the 25th of
March 2015. In the first part of one group's
meeting, the director of the Aida Camp Mr.
Salaah, gave us a warm welcome and schooled us
on the brief history of the Camp. According to
him, the camp began way back in 1948 when the
state of Israel was being created. The creation
process resulted in the displacement of a large
percentage of the Palestinian population. Shortly
after the director's briefing, we began our tour of
the Camp.
What, however remains an enigma to us, is the
fact that the refugees remain as such in their own
land. May the God of Love and Mercy bring them
hope, justice and happiness.
Our tour around the camp furnished us with the
rest of the practical information of the Camp and
helped us to understand the conditions in which
the refugees live. As we went around the camp,
our guide gave us further details regarding the
history of the first flight of the refugees leading to
the final establishment of the Camp. We
discovered from his narrations, how horrific it
was during the fleeing of the people from their
different villages and the harsh conditions they
consequently endured in the first tent-camps.
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MAKE THE DESERT BLOOM
Experiencing the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea
Report by Br. Paolo Negrini, SDB
I still have in my eyes the pure beauty that only the
solitude of the desert is able to give. We walk in
the desert as outsiders since we do not belong to
that environment; but, somehow, spiritually all of
us are born there. There, we are called to return so
as to comprehend intimately that being free is to
possess only the love of God and to be his sons
and daughters.
You have to go through the desert and live there to
experience the grace of God. It is there that we
can drive away from ourselves all that is not God
and empty the little house of our soul in order to
reserve the place for God alone ... The Israelites
were in the desert; Moses lived there before
receiving his mission; St. Paul came from
Damascus to spend three years in the Arabah; St.
Jerome and St. John Chrysostom prepared their
vocations in the desert ... The desert is essential; it
is a place and a time of grace. It is a period
through which every soul who bears fruit must
pass. It needs this silence, this recollection.
A group of us, students of the STS, led by Fr Biju,
the Principal, together with other staff members
took some time off and had a wonderful
experience in the desert. Starting off on our
journey in the afternoon of Tuesday, April 7, our
destination was the piece of desert that embraces
the Dead Sea to the east and the peaks from
beneath the imposing stronghold of Masada to the
south. As soon as we reached the camp site and
pitched tents, we dedicated our time to prayer,
communal and personal, as if tuning our hearts
and souls to the presence of God, in a place that
touches us deeply: the land that sustains, the spirit
06| June 2015
that gives life and the sun that burns even within
us. The evening was spent around a generous
BBQ roasting on a scout fire with dancing and
singing to the rhythm of joy under a sky studded
with stars.
The night was spent in tents or the open air,
watching the starry night, with the wind caressing
us as if singing a lullaby and rocking us until the
dawn of a new day. Watching the sun rise with its
rays striking the Dead Sea was a once in a lifetime
spectacle. After breakfast, the group, sustained
by a prudent supply of water, courageously
trekked through the wadi (valley) of the desert
under a sun that gave no respite but with only the
hope of filling the eyes with the saving beauty in
front of us. The Mass, celebrated at midmorning,
set the tone and gave impetus to our continuing
the journey. The afternoon saw us going to Ein
Bokek for a swim in the Dead Sea and a little
relaxation.
The journey home was accompanied by tiredness
but we were filled with much joy from this unique
experience. For each trip is
made to return home. This
desert experience has been a
Eucharistic celebration of
thanksgiving: a gift of
ourselves to God and to our
traveling companions.
STS FOOTBALL MATCH 2015 - BICENTENARY OF
DON BOSCO'S BIRTH
Report by Romero D' Souza SDB
In honour of the Bicentenary of Don Bosco's Birth,
on Wednesday 29th of April 2015 the staff and
students of STS had a Football Tournament. It was an
initiative of the Student Assembly of the STS, under
the leadership of the Student Representative, Tomasz
Sage. The entertaining event kicked off at 2:30 pm
as scheduled in the Sacher Park in Jerusalem. Four
teams were formed (A, B, C, D). Each team played
against the other teams to determine the overall
winner based on the point system (Loss – 0, Draw –
1, Win – 3). All throughout the games, we had
supporters cheering their respective teams. This
brought in not only liveliness and enthusiasm to the
players but to every participating member. A special
mention is to be made to the sole referee for all the
games Deacon, Phat Tran Ngoc who did a
commendable work. There were refreshments
served at the games thanks to the generosity of the
STS Economer. At the end of the day, Team D
emerged overall winners of the tournament with 5
points.
It was indeed a day of fun and as Don Bosco
would say, “Run, Jump, Play but do not Sin”, we
ran, we jumped and we enjoyed every bit of the
tournament. The hallmark of the day was indeed
fraternal togetherness and time spent in sharing
with each other the talents and meaningful
encounter of each other's presence. Viva Don
Bosco!!! Viva STS!!!
STS
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SEMINARS AND CONFERENCES
CONFERENCE ON THE
GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH
BY ANNA KOULOURIS
Report by Andrea Lupi, SDB
The STS Faculty of Theology, Jerusalem offered
a series of lectures and conferences on Oriental
Churches during this academic year. In this series
it was a privileged moment to attend a conference
on the Greek Orthodox Church by Miss Anna
Koulouris, a journalist and a specialist in Middle
East Studies. She is an assistant in
communications to His Beatitude Theophilos III,
the Patriarch of the Greek Orthodox Church,
Jerusalem. She contributes to various
publications.
Miss Anna Khoulouris's lecture featured three
principal themes. Firstly, she discussed in detail,
the historical dimension of the Greek Orthodox
Patriarchate of Jerusalem. Secondly, she
undertook to explain the Greek Orthodox liturgy
in order to enable her audience to grasp to a better
understanding of it. In her third theme, she
painstakingly outlined some of the important
strategies the Greek Orthodox Church has
adopted over the years in overcoming some of the
challenges of ecumenical dialogue. In addition to
these three principal themes, Miss Anna
08| June 2015
Khoulouris also touched on other important
topics including the role of the Greek Orthodox
Patriarch in the resolution of the numerous
religious and political problems of the Holy Land.
Miss Anna Khoulouris asked the following two
important questions and gave fitting answers to
them: Can Eastern and Western Churches coexist
like a symbiosis between two living organisms?
What does it mean to be my brother's keeper in
relation to religious tolerance?
In Miss Anna Khoulouris' view, hope lies in
dialogue, because in the midst of conflicts and
violence there is hope that people can live
together in justice and peace. In dialogue, there is
healing and reconciliation, because it requires one
to accept blame humbly when one is at fault and to
ask for pardon and forgiveness from the other. It is
through dialogue that Eastern and Western
Churches will no longer see each other as
enemies, but as brothers in unity with Christ. At
the end Miss Anna Khoulouris responded to a
series of pertinent questions from her audience. It
was an eye-opening learning experience about the
Greek Orthodox Church.
BOOK PRESENTATIONS
BOOK PRESENTATIONS
The STS encourages students to read classic books on spiritual life, scriptures, or theology and to present to the
student body what they have assimilated as a way to encourage and practice public speaking skills in a formal
academic setting. This semester we had the rare opportunity of witnessing the presentation of the very author of
the first book ever published by the STS.
FORETASTE OF HEAVENLY LITURGY: COMMEMMORATING,
CELEBRATING AND LIVING. An Anthropological, Theological and Liturgical Reflection on
African Sub Saharan Music through Saint Augustine and Sacrosanctum Concilium. By Fr. Moses Wanjala, Sdb
Report by Chege, Erastus Nduati, Sdb.
The STS, on the 24th of March, 2015, had a book
presentation of its first publication. The book,
entitled “FORETASTE OF HEAVENLY
L I T U R G Y: C O M M E M M O R AT I N G ,
C E L E B R AT I N G A N D L I V I N G . A n
Anthropological, Theological and Liturgical
Reflection on African Sub Saharan Music
through Saint Augustine and Sacrosanctum
Concilium” was presented by Fr. Wanjala Moses,
Sdb it author. Fr. Wanjala Moses is a Ugandan
Catholic Priest belonging to the Religious
Congregation of the Salesians of Don Bosco,
whose charism is to work with and for the young
throughout the world. He has experience in the
countries and cultures of Eastern Africa,
especially in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda,
Burundi, among others. He holds a B.A. Degree
in Philosophy and Education, Sacred Theology
and a Licentiate/M.A. Degree in Sacred Liturgy
(LSL). He has been a Lecturer at Don Bosco
Utume, Nairobi – Kenya and he is currently a
Professor at Studium Theologicum Salesianum,
Salesian Pontifical University, Faculty of
Theology – Jerusalem Campus. He is working on
his Doctorate.
In presenting his book, he gave a brief view of its
content. He called it an attempt to respond to the
call of the Council of Vatican II to a full, conscious
and active participation in celebration of the
Paschal Mystery of Christ. One of the ways to
realize this participation is through music. Taking
us briefly through the history of the Old
Testament, Fr Moses noted that Israel's first cause
of singing songs of praise to God was the event of
their Salvation in the crossing of the Red Sea. For
Christians, Christ's resurrection is a true Exodus
song. Quoting Sacrosanctum Concilium 8, Fr
Moses underscored the fact that through the
celebration of the Pilgrim Church's liturgy, we
foretaste the heavenly liturgy.
Divided into three parts, the first Chapter of the
book focuses attention on African tradition: role
of music in the life of Augustine and his
conversion. This chapter treats the aestheticartistic value of music and dance in the African
milieu and its educative, cultural and religious
challenges. The chapter also deals with the role of
music in St Augustine's conversion. Special
mention is on the "Pick up and read" song which is
STS
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BACCALAUREATE
said to have created a liaison between music and
the Divine Order, a phenomenon that produced a
special effect on St Augustine.
The second Chapter treats the “New Song of St.
Augustine" which centers on reflections on the
Mystery of music in the Eucharist with special
emphasis on the Exsultet on Paschal Sunday as
well as the character of faith and music in the
Christian community. In the third Chapter entitled
"Commemorating, Celebrating and Living" the
"Lord's Day in Africa" through Music, Fr Moses
investigates the anthropological aspects of
liturgical music namely, the individual, society,
culture and religious-catechetical and
sacramental dimensions of faith in Liturgy.
Fr Moses teaches in his book that Paschal music is
Christological because Christ is our Passover
Lamb. It is Pneumatological since Christ is the
source of the Spirit, Ecclesial-sacramental since
the Church finds its origin and strength in Easter
and Eschatological as it is an anticipation of the
new life through Christ's Parousia. The journey of
our search for God begins with Him, who calls the
human person to follow Christ, from within his
own cultural context through the invitation of the
Scriptures to commemorate and celebrate the life
of Christ in the Liturgy.
Through music, the African cultural community,
is gradually formed by the fusion of voices and
hearts that search and strive to eliminate
differences be they age, origin, class or social
condition so as to pave the way for reunion of all
creation into the One Creator. Fr Moses
concluded his book presentation by responding to
a series of questions from his audience.
Jerusalem, Tuesday 26 May 2015.
Rev. Fr. Vincent John Bosco, sdb successfully
defended his thesis on, “The Christology of John of
Damascus and his encounter with Islam and the modern
perspective of dialogue with Muslims” on 26 May 2015.
The defense was held in the Academic Suite of the Salesian
Pontifical University’s Faculty of Theology, Jerusalem
Campus. It was the first Master Degree Defense held at the
Campus in Jerusalem and the theme of the thesis was very apt as it
dealt with St. John of Damascus who lived and died at San Saba
monastery which is not very far from the Campus. It was also
auspicious that Archbishop Joseph Jules Zerey, the Greek Melkite
Catholic Patriarchal Vicar was present at the defense.
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Rev. Prof. Mario Maritano, the moderator of the thesis, came from the
headquarters of the Salesian Pontifical University in Rome to be present at the
defense. Rev. Prof. Pier Giorgio Gianazza was the reader and co-moderator. Rev.
Fr. Biju Michael, the STS Principal was the president of the commission. The large
group of professors and students who attended the defense were treated to some very
interesting presentation and discussion on St. John of Damascus’ ideas on Islam and
his teachings on salvation, ecumenical and inter-religious dialogue, and Mariology.
Rev. Fr. Vincent really exhibited his expertise and received great applause for his
responses to the questions posed by the commission.
On declaring Rev. Fr. Vincent, a Master of Theology, the principal of the STS, Fr. Biju
Michael, pointed out the significance of this first Master Degree defense for the STS and
thanked the Dean of the Faculty of Theology, The Secretary General of the University and the
Rector of the University for the arrangements made for this historic event. It is also significant from
the perspective of institutional growth that Fr. Vincent is among the first students of the STS who,
together with Fr. Karol Kulpa are now on the staff of the STS.
10| June 2015
STS GRADUATES 2014-2015
Deacon Habib Sandy
defends his Baccalaureate Synthesis
Report by Finansius Sidabutar
Deacon Sandy Habib, obtained the Pontifical Bachelor Degree in Theology from
Studium Theologicum Salesianum, Jerusalem, campus of the Salesian Pontifical
University. He successfully defended his synthesis on, "FOR I DESIRE
KHESED AND NOT SACRIFICE:" READING THEOLOGY THROUGH
THE GLASSES OF KHESED. The examining commission composed of The
Principal Rev. Dr. Biju Michael, the tutor Rev. Dr. Eric Wyckof, and the reader
Rev. Dr. William Russell.
In Deacon Sandy's own words: “The Biblical Hebrew concept of khesed defies
translation. In English, it is glossed by some as love, by others as mercy, and by yet others as loyalty,
faithfulness, or loving-kindness. I argue that this concept refers to a good act gratuitously done by
someone for another, and I demonstrate how God's creation act, miracles, law, incarnation, and paschal
mystery, together with the seven sacraments and the Church's mission can all be viewed as acts of
khesed.”
Deacon Sandy began his presentation by explaining the meaning of keshed. Khesed is a biblical term. It
can be explained as a good action that some one gratuitously does for another without expecting
anything in return. Khesed is one of the chief characteristics of God. In Exodus 34:6, God describes
himself as being merciful and abounding in khesed. Deacon Sandy demonstrated how Old Testament
and New Testament events can be seen and understood in the light of Khesed. Creation along with some
other events in the OT can be seen as acts of khesed, whose source is God. The creation of human beings
can be regarded as khesed. God did not need to create human beings. God did that out of pure love. The
giving of the Law is khesed. NT is abounding with acts of khesed. The Incarnation of the Son, as the
Word of God become flesh is an act of khesed (Jn 1-18). The incarnation is one of the highest acts of
khesed because owing to this act, the paschal mystery was made possible. The seven signs that Jesus
worked, gratuitously to help a person or a group of people, can be seen as acts of khesed. Deacon Sandy
concluded his presentation by showing how the Church is an institute and a channel of khesed, through
the Sacraments and through its mission. The seven sacraments can be viewed as acts of khesed. A
sacrament is a visible sign through which the triune God gratuitously reaches out to us.
After the presentation, the commission members asked Deacon Sandy some questions. He
systematically and successfully answered all the questions. The tutor and the reader appreciated very
much his synthesis. Deacon Sandy belongs to a Maronite Diocese in the Holy Land.
Kizhakkarakkattu Denny George
defends his Baccalaureate Synthesis
Report by Vladimir Plasek
The Baccalaureate exam of Kizhakkarakkattu George Denny (belonging to the
Chur Diocese of Switzerland and native of India) was held on 28th May 2015 at
15.00 at the Studium Theologicum Salesianum, Jerusalem Campus of the
Salesian Pontifical University. The theme of his synthesis was: “HEAVEN AS
THE FULFILMENT OF CHRISTIAN LIFE: GOD PREDESTINES US FOR
SALVATION; ASKS OUR ACTIVE RESPONSE IN FOLLOWING CHRIST;
OFFERS A FORETASTE AND A PLEDGE IN THE SACRAMENTS;
PRESENTS A COMMUNION WITH THE HOLY TRINITY AND THE SAINTS IN THE NEW
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HEAVENS AND NEW EARTH.” The examining Commission was composed of the Principal Rev. Dr.
Biju Michael, the Tutor Rev. Fr. William Russell and the Reader Rev. Fr. Moses Wanjala.
In Br. Denny's own words: “The topic of my thesis talks about the human salvation of God in Jesus
Christ. I am interested in learning more about the final destiny of the human person. It is also important
for me to know more about the teachings on Christ's second coming, and the manner in which salvation
is brought about by the grace of God. The descriptions of heaven in the Holy Scriptures which I have
read from my childhood onwards encouraged me to seek a greater understanding of these themes.
Another reason for my interest has been some of the conversations which I had with friends who are not
Christians but believers in other religions. These conversations made me think more deeply about what
heaven and fulfillment really are, and what the Catholic faith ultimately means.”
Br. Denny divided his synthesis into four chapters. In the beginning of the presentation he expressed his
main motivation for following his work and then he presented the main ideas. First he explained heaven
and fulfillment, the core chapter of the whole work which leads to predestination. He then underlined
the importance of sacraments through which we can foretaste eternal life.
The tutor appreciated the work and pointed out the need to pay greater attention to discipleship and
things that could be done on the earth to get into heaven. Speaking of discipleship, Denny stressed the
need to listen to the voice of God and to the voice of the poor and marginalized. He drew inspiration
from Evangelii gaudium.
The reader underlined the variety and richness of the sources the candidate used for the work, especially
review of the contemporary authors. He proposed a question on the relation between grace and
predestination. Finally the commission head, Fr. Biju gave his concluding remark after examining Bro.
Denny’s work from the moral and pastoral point of view and announced Denny a Bachelor of Theology
Degree.
Denny is looking forward to diaconate ministry and priestly ordination in the Chur diocese in
Switzerland.
Deacon Emmanuel George Phiri
defends his Baccalaureate Synthesis Defense
Report by Br. Alemayehu Bedassa Tura, SDB
Rev. Deacon George Emmanuel is a Salesian of Don Bosco from Malawi. Today,
Deacon George has successfully defended his baccalaureate synthesis and
obtained his Pontifical Bachelor of Theology Degree from the Studium
Theologicum Salesianum here at the Jerusalem Campus of the Salesian
Pontifical University. His topic was "The Paschal Mystery of the Incarnate and
Risen Lord is shared by the Christian faithful and becomes the centre of Christian
faith, worship and life". In all wisdom and insight, he has made known to us the
mystery of his will in accord with his favor that he set forth in him as a plan for the fullness of times, to
sum up all things in Christ, in heaven and on earth (Eph 1:9-10). The review commission consisted of
the president Rev. Dr. Biju Michael Biju SDB, his tutor Rev. Dr. Pier Giorgio Gianazza, SDB, and Rev.
Dr. Gianni Caputa, SDB as the reader.
In Deacon George's own words: “This paper is an inspiration of my childhood questions that remained
unanswered as concerning the real meaning of suffering and God's intervention in the human condition.
I used to ask myself why is there suffering at all? How do I live as a Christian in a world in which
suffering is inevitable as in natural disasters, deadly diseases, murder, torture and terrorism, injustice,
war, racism and discrimination, death etc. What is the meaning of all this? Is there a possibility to talk
about happiness in such a world? Well the first and persisting problem is that of evil as a result of Sin.
The incarnate and risen Lord sent by the Father dwelt, lived, suffered, died and resurrected in order that
12| June 2015
man becomes a sharer in Divine nature (cf. Dei Verbum, 2). Hence temporal suffering is nothing as
compared to the eternal happiness through the man and God, Jesus Christ.”
In his synthesis, Deacon George explained well his topic from the Christological, Mariological,
Pastoral, Liturgical, Dogmatic, Patristic, Magisterial and Biblical point of views. He emphasized
Jesus' Passion, Death, Resurrection, Ascension and the coming of the Holy Spirit. He pointed out
nicely the eternal covenant that God made with humanity from the very beginning in order to share in
his divine love. This covenant received its fulfillment through the Paschal Mystery. Generally, he said
that, the Church is born from the Passion of Jesus Christ. Furthermore, the Church commemorates and
participates in His Paschal mystery through the Seven Sacraments along with praise and worship until
the second coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, who sent the Holy Spirit to guide and prepare the Bride (the
Church) for the Bridegroom who is Jesus Himself.
Deacon George will be ordained to the priesthood on 27 June 2015 in his native Malawi
Baccalaureate Exam Of Rev. Deacon Hurtado Solis, Manuel
Deacon Hurtado Solis Manuel defended his synthesis today. The topic of his
synthesis was “Know that I am with you, I will protect you wherever you go”
(Gen. 28:15). God's presence in the Scripture, in Christ, in the Church, in the
Sacraments and in the heart of humanity.
In Deacon Manuel's own words: “I have always asked myself, how is it possible
that many people believe in God while others do not? Is there any God? How is it
possible that many people hand over their lives to someone who is invisible and
untouchable and others simply reject his existence? How strong is the presence of
God in the lives of many? And, why are there people who feel this presence as
something evident and others feel nothing? Can we experience God's presence? If it is so, can we make
God present? In order to answer these questions, I committed myself to try to demonstrate that God is
present in today's world; that this presence is a real one; that it can be found if human beings look for it;
that it can be useful because it can give meaning to suffering, evil, and death which have not been
eliminated by all kinds of progress.”
He presented his work in three points in terms of God's presence throughout history of salvation starting
from creation, all the way through incarnation, and today in the Church as continual presence of God in
the world. He started with the question, “Why are there some people who believe in God and some who
do not believe in God?” After that question, he went on to lay out the structure of his synthesis.
He structured the three chapters in a Trinitarian way. The first Chapter dealt with God's presence in the
Scriptures, Old and New Testaments where God the Father and God Son are actively present. The
second Chapter of his paper dealt with the incarnation of Jesus. In the same chapter, he talked about
Mary in order for him and his readers to understand or have an idea about the incarnation of Jesus. For
him, Incarnation cannot be understood without Mary. In the third chapter, he talked about God's
presence in the sacraments and in the Church through the Holy Spirit. His concluding chapter talked
about God's presence in the heart of humanity as Lumen Gentium number 4 says.
In his synthesis, there were three recurring themes or leitmotifs: creation, action and works, and temple,
which represent God's actual presence. In terms of creation, God is the one who created everything out
of nothing and this creation now is new in the person of Jesus Christ. In terms of action and work God
created everything with the sound of his voice where God spoke the words and something great
happened. The last leitmotif he spoke about was the temple in terms of God's presence in the temple and
in the tent of meeting. The temple is not just symbolic but the place in which God is present in a special
way. The temple is the dwelling place of God. The temple in the Old Testament would be replaced with
STS
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Jesus Christ as the true and living temple of God. Jesus became the new temple. Today the Church as the
bride of Christ and the temple of God can be found in the heart of humanity. Deacon Manuel did a great
job in defending his synthesis in the line of God's presence in Scriptures, in Christ, in the Church, in the
Sacraments, and in the heart of humanity.
Kabore Yoro Léon Is Now A Holder Of Bachelor Degree In
Theology!
Report by Cletus Atindaana
May 30th 2015 stands out as one of the most significant dates in both the
academic and priestly formation life of Deacon KABORE Yoro Léon, M.Afr. On
this day, in the presence of a panel of three professors together with other
observing lecturers and the students of STS and invited guests, Deacon Léon
successfully defended his Baccalaureate Synthesis entitled “God's Plan for
Humanity is Revealed and Fulfilled by Jesus Christ, who, therefore, is the Perfect
model of Human Behavior for both Christians and Members of other Religions.”
In the ten-minute presentation of his Synthesis, Léon treated his audience and professors to an
interesting overview of the entire enterprise. Being a convert to Christianity from the African
Traditional Religion, Deacon Léon indicated that the choice of his title for the research was heavily
influenced by his experience. According to Deacon Léon, his Theological studies made him discover
more about the human person from the Anthropological view point and most importantly humanity's
relationship with God. These discoveries left Deacon Léon bewildered and hence, he undertook to seek
insights into these matters.
Primarily convinced that man is created in God's image to know God and rightly relate with God,
Deacon Léon sought to dig through the Scriptures and the valuable Tradition and teachings of the
Church to affirm that Jesus Christ is the one through whom God's saving plan for all humanity is
revealed and fulfilled. Being the concrete manifestation of the inner life of God and His eternal plan for
humanity, Deacon Léon demonstrates convincingly that Jesus Christ is the Perfect model of human
behavior for both Christians and members of other religions. All through his three-chapter syntheses,
Deacon Léon enthusiastically weaves together Scriptural teachings alongside the Teachings of the
Tradition of the Church through her Magisterial documents to make his point.
Responding to important questions regarding how he would, in theory and praxis, translate the
discoveries of his Syntheses to non-Christians since they too have their perfect models of human life,
Deacon Léon indicated that among other things, Dialogue and living out the Christin life to its core are
key ways of bringing the Good News to all.
Deacon Kabore Yoro Léon, having earned his new Bachelor of Theology Degree now looks forward to
his priestly ordination in July 2015 and his future mission in the Islamic town of Gardhaia in Algeria.
Deacon Kristian Laygo
defends his Baccalaureate Synthesis
Report by Romero D'Souza SDB
The Student Laygo Kristian for his Baccalaureate exam presented his synthesis
titled, “The identity of the laity in the theology of the Catholic Church: vocation,
mission and challenges in the twenty-first century”. He began his introduction on
a personal note by presenting the 'the identity of the laity' in a theological context
of the Catholic Church from his own background. He focused on the two key
elements which are foundational and fundamental to the Church: vocation and
mission in the twenty-first century – world today. His scholarly enhancement of
14| June 2015
the subject was evident from the answers he gave in reply to the questions raised by his Tutor Gianazza,
Pier Giorgio and the Reader Obu, Samuel. The chapters of the thesis also showed the historical
development of the understanding on the vocation of the laity in the Catholic Church. The final chapter
focused on the challenges faced by the laity in the contemporary world. Special emphasises was laid on
society, family, culture, and politics.
Deacon Kristian will be ordained in the United States of America.
Baccalaureate Synthesis Defense Of Deacon Arcadius Puwein,
Sdb
Report by Br. Paul Phuoc Trong Chu, SDB
On the morning of 30 May 2015 here in Jerusalem, Rev. Deacon Arcadius
Puwein, SDB successfully defended his baccalaureate synthesis entitled
“Marriage and family find their identity and mission in the plan of God the
creator and redeemer”. The commission panel overseeing this defense consisted
of president of the commission, Rev. Professor Kevin Mwandha, SDB, tutor Rev.
Professor Biju Michael, SDB, and reader Rev. Professor Samuel Obu, SDB. The
event was attended by fellow students of the STS and a large group of lay people
who are friends of the Deacon.
During the defense, Deacon Arcadius was commended by all on the panel for having completed a
coherent and unified synthesis with good breadth and depth drawing on the teachings of Sacred
Scriptures, the Magisterium, and the Fathers of the Church. One panelist noted that, from the beginning
to the end of the synthesis, the Deacon has shown his deep interest on the issues of marriage and family
in the modern context. This synthesis is timely considering the recent Synod on the Family in Rome
and the upcoming World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia, USA. Impressive was the fact that
Deacon Arcadius responded to the challenges of marriage, as elaborated in his synthesis and those
posed by the panelists, in a clear and thoughtful manner while being faithful to the teachings of Jesus
Christ and the Church. The questions asked by the panelists touched on the sensitive topics of marriage,
divorce, cohabitation, abortion, contraception, baptism, confession, excommunication, and other
moral issues. These difficult questions were answered in a learned, graceful and edifying manner by
our Deacon showing that he has assimilated well the content of theology learned here at the STS in the
past four years.
The event concluded with the proclamation by Fr. Biju Michael, SDB (President of the STS) that
Deacon Arcadius Puwein has successfully obtained the Pontifical degree of Bachelor of Theology.
This proclamation was followed by an excitement of applause and a standing ovation of those in the
audience. We pray and wish our Deacon Arcadius a successful and holy journey toward the Priesthood
in serving God's people.
Deacon Phat Tran Ngoc
defends his Baccalaureate Synthesis
Report by Bro. James Raj
On 27th May, 2015, Dn. TRAN NGOC Phat, obtained the Pontifical Bachelor of
Theology degree from the Studium Theologicum Salesianum, Jerusalem campus
of the Salesian Pontifical University by accomplishing his synthesis on
"VERBUM DOMINI: CHRIST IS THE WORD OF FATHER, THE CHURCH
IS ITS MINISTER, THE WORLD IS ITS FIELD AND THE CHRISTIAN IS
ITS WITNESS." The examining Commission was composed of the Principal
Rev. Dr. Biju Michael, the Tutor Rev. Pier Giorgio Gianazza and the Reader Rev.
Dr. Stephen Kuncherakatt.
|15
STS
Dn. Phat began his presentation with a short prayer and he underlined that the Word of God plays a vital
role in his synthesis. The 'Word' is the second person of the Trinity. The eternal 'Word' who is both life
and truth has been manifested through Christ who was sent by God the Father. The fullness of
redemption, God's love and the promise of the Holy Spirit is realized in the person of Christ. The
Church was established to carry out the mission of Christ with the help of the Spirit. The 'Word', like a
seed, has to be sown throughout the nations by every Christian with apostolic zeal. A Christian becomes
a witness in preaching the 'Word' with the help of the Scripture and the teachings of the Church. Added
to this, Dn. Phat defended his synthesis effectively by responding to the questions and clarifications
raised by the examining commission. The questions included: What is the importance of the Word of
God in the Liturgy, especially in the Sacraments and in the Eucharist? How does a Christian become a
witness to this Word? Is it just proclamation by word or witness of life or both? Dn. Phat belongs to the
Salesian Province in Vietnam. Congratulations to Dn. Phat.
Baccalaureate Synthesis Exam Of Deacon Ruszniak Jakub
Report by Minh Dang.
On a beautiful morning of June 1st 2015, Rev. Deacon Jakub Ruszniak, SDB
successfully defended his baccalaureate synthesis entitled “The Family as the
Sanctuary of Life and Dignity of the Human Being”. The commission panel
overseeing this defense consisted of Rev. Professor Kevin Mwandha, SDB, Rev.
Professor Biju Michael, SDB, and reader Rev. Karol Kulpa, SDB.
The defense begun with a prayer to the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength,
particularly for the family of contemporary time. Thereafter, Deacon Jakub gave
a short introduction to his Synthesis and went on to give an overview of each of
the three chapters of his work. His first chapter focuses on the “Family as a Communion of Persons,” to
the notion of the family in sacred Scripture, as a sign and image of the Trinity, a domestic church, and an
original cell of social life. In his second chapter, Deacon Jakub placed emphasis on the “Family as the
Sanctuary of Life and Dignity of Human Beings.” In this chapter, he delved into the definition of
marriage along with sacramentality and the indissolubility of marriage. In chapter three entitled
“Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Modern World,” Deacon Jakub schooled his audience on the
rights and dignity of human beings in the order of procreation, and the equality and difference willed by
God. His synthesis gave an excellent overview of the historical development of the Catholic Church’s
understanding of family and the pastoral care that ensues.
Deacon Jakub will be ordained priest on June, 13th in Poland.
Rev. Deacon Fissihaye Melles Gidey defends his Baccalaureate
Synthesis
Report by Br. Girmay Hailu, SDB
1 June 2015 stands out as one of the most significant dates in the academic life
and priestly formation of Rev. Deacon Fissihaye Melles Gidey, SDB from
Ethiopia. Deacon Fissihaye successfully defended his baccalaureate synthesis
entitled “ ‘He can no longer have God for his Father who has not the Church for
his mother (St. Cyprian)’ the mother hood of the Church and Mary as
participation in the Mystery of God’s Fecundity.” This academic exercise was
led by three professors, his Tutor Rev. Professor Gianazza Pier Giorgio, SDB,
the reader Rev. Professor Kuncherakatt Stephen, SDB, and the principal Rev. Professor Michael Biju,
SDB and attended by other lecturers and students of the STS.
16| June 2015
In Deacon Fissihaye’s own words: “I should say at the very beginning, the title of my topic is well
known. However, it has been a great privilege and pleasure for me to choose and expound on this topic. I
was motivated to do this synthesis because I have a very strong personal relation and devotion to the
Church and to our Blessed Mother, just like many other Ethiopians back at home. This topic helped me
to understand and to know more about the love of God in the history of salvation as manifested in God’s
wonderful work in the life of the Church and the Blessed Virgin Mary.”
In ten minutes, Deacon Fissihaye treated his professors and audience to an interesting overview of the
entire work. Raised in a strong Christian catholic environment, he indicated that he was influenced by
his parents’ devotion to Mary, which he embraced as his own. This personal devotion gave rise to his
interest on the topic: “the mother hood of the church and Mary as participation in the mystery of God’s
fecundity.”
During the examination by the professors, Deacon Fissihaye elaborated on the role of Mary in the
Catholic Church based on the four Marian dogmas: the Mother of God, the Perpetual Virgin, the
Immaculate Conception and the Assumption of Mary into heaven. He supported his work by the use of
different sources: Sacred Scripture, the Magisterium, the Catechism of Catholic Church and Church
Fathers.
Deacon Fissihaye also presented his work from an ecumenical point of view. He highlighted the
importance of dialogue, evangelization and ecumenism. The Church is open to dialogue with other
Christians and non-Christians. The Church believes that she is not perfect and that perfection comes
only through gradual purification, openness to dialogue, and being ready to learn.
STS Ends the Academic Year 2014/2015 in Grand Style!
Report by Herve Tougma, M.Afr
“There is a time for everything, a time to start and
a time to end”. On this 3rd day of June, 2015, the
Studium Theologicum Salesianum brought its
2014-2015 academic year to a close in a grand
style. This great day was graced by his
Excellency, Most Rev. Guiseppe Lazzarotto, the
Apostolic Delegate to the Holy Land.
The activities of the day started with the Students'
Assembly with an inspiring opening prayer by
Deacon Sandy, one of the graduates of this year.
Under the coordination of Tomasz Sage, the
Students' Representative, students expressed
diverse opinions and feelings on a range of
matters regarding the academic life of the year.
They also made useful suggestions in view of
improving teaching and learning at the STS.
Hearty words of gratitude and appreciation to
professors and to the graduating deacons were
also expressed by students. Specifically, the
excellent leadership of the Principal as well as the
quality and hard work of the whole teaching staff
were deeply appreciated. Nonetheless, students
pointed out certain domains that need
improvements and new initiatives to be taken.
The Principal, Fr Biju, took time to respond to
some of the important issues raised by students.
Graduation 2014/2015
STS
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Among other things, he recognized the important
role the Student's Assembly plays in improving
the quality of the academic life of the STS. He
showed his appreciation for the great
participation of the senior students from whom
came most of the issues and suggestions.
students expressed their gratitude for all that they
received from the STS. Tomasz Sage registered his
vote of thanks to all on behalf of the Student Body
while three outgoing professors, Fr Dominique
Arnauld, Fr Samuel Obu and Fr Kevin Mwandha
also took turns to express their profound gratitude.
The second part of the ceremony started with a
quick review of the academic year by Sr Mary
Colman, the Registrar of the STS. Having
welcomed everyone, especially our guest of
honor Most Rev. Guiseppe Lazzarotto, she
proceeded to give quick highlights of the different
events that occurred during the year. Notable
among them included conferences focused on the
Eastern and Oriental Churches, Psychosexual
Maturity and Steve Rays' “Crossing the Tiber”.
Other events such as Archeological Excursions,
Topographical Visits, Galilee trip for the first year
students, Visit to Refugee Camps, Desert
Experience, and Book Presentations were also
outlined. Another landmarked event was the
publication of two books by the STS Publications.
The occasion was also an opportunity to reward
those who won the Bicentenary Football
Tournament to mark the birth of Don Bosco held in
the course of the year. Most Rev. Guiseppe gave
away the trophy to the winning team. He addressed
the whole assembly. In his speech, the Nuncio took
the occasion to express his appreciation for what is
being done at the STS. He indicated that he was
indeed happy with the STS; “For an aging man, it is
very refreshing to be among young people”
affirming that he is a part of the STS family. He
stressed that what is being done by the STS cannot
be overestimated. He reminded the STS that they
play a crucial role not only for their various
congregations and Christian communities but the
Universal Church at large. He noted that the
presence of the STS in the Holy Land is extremely
important vis-a-vis the challenging moment which
the Church in the Holy Land is going through. He
affirmed that the present challenges should be
faced positively. He said that the time had come to
intelligently discern opportunities in order to build
up the Church. Addressing the deacons, Most Rev.
Lazzarotto invited them to “never think that it is
“finite” or what you have done is enough”. There is
always more to learn, more to offer to the
communities, to the world. What they have
learned, they should share with others. He
expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the
invitation as he renews his full support to the
initiatives of the institute.
On this august occasion, one of the newly
published books “Christianity in Africa”, written
by Fr Dominique Arnauld, M.Afr. was released,
by our guest of honor, his Excellency, Most Rev.
Guiseppe Lazzarotto. This was shortly followed
by a presentation of the book by its author, Fr
Dominique Arnauld. The book is the English
translation of a French version published some
years ago. For him as a historian, reading other
authors gave the impression that Christianity in
Africa is of a recent time. However Christianity in
Africa has been present from the beginning of
Christianity and Africa played a major role in the
development of the Church in both the East and
the West. These impressions motivated him to
take notes which led to the publication of the
book. The churches in Africa, which profoundly
marked the beginning of Christianity, can take
legitimate pride in the history of Christianity.
The book presentation, was followed by a quick
picturesque powerpoint highlights of the
academic year prepared by Br Javier Orengo, a
first year student. This refreshed our minds about
the crucial moments of the year.
In succession, various representatives took turns
to express their gratitude to all and sundry.
Deacon Fissihaye, representing the fourth year
18| June 2015
The most important moment of the day was then
reached for the presentation of certificates to the
graduating students by the guest of honor Most
Rev. Guiseppe Lazzarotto. In total, ten graduates
received their certificates. Each student and the
departing professors received a special gift from
the institute including a special caricature
painting of themselves made by Br Minh, a 2nd
year student.
After the presentation of the certificates, the
Principal, Fr Biju gave a concluding speech and
the vote of thanks. He noticed that the institute
kept growing thanks to the good collaboration it
enjoys with the White Fathers and the other
students coming from outside. He appreciated the
support of the Nuncio and thanked him for that. A
word of thanks was also addressed to the Salesian
provincial of the Middle East and the Provincial
team represented by Fr Gianazza. He was
grateful to all staff and students of the STS for the
various roles they play in keeping the Campus
running. For the departing professors, Fr Biju
Michael wrote short poems for each one of them.
He finished his speech with some wisdom-filled
exhortations. He invited the future priest to
openness for further knowledge in order to be
able to transfer that knowledge to the people of
God. “We do things first for our own salvation
and then for many others whom we can bring to
God”. He read Psalms 107 and 138 to thank the
Lord for all graces received. The ceremony ended
with hymn followed by a festive lunch.
ADIEU TO OUR PROFESSORS
The STS is very grateful to Prof. Dominique Arnauld, M.Afr. (Church History), Prof. Samuel Obu,
sdb, (Systematic Theology) and Prof. Kevin Mwandha, sdb (Canon Law) for their contributions.
With much gratitude we bid their farewell and wish them the best in their academic and priestly life.
TO PROFESSOR SAMUEL OBU
Samuel you are humble, quiet and simple,
With you as teacher, we shall not fumble.
The Church awaits you, a defender true,
With PhD and laurels, return to our crew.
TO PROFESSOR KEVIN MWANDHA
A Lawyer with a twist, with a smile that can kill,
Sharp as a wasp, your classes exhibit your skill.
Kevin you are a fable, which will remain stable
At STS for a long time, for you are inscrutable.
TO PROFESSOR DOMINIQUE ARNAULD
Dominic Arnauld, in you we can behold,
God's blessings manifold, poured out a hundred fold.
Gentleness and meekness, with a dose of firmness;
Craftiness you dismiss and you speak with all frankness.
Gentle as a lamb, sharp as a soaring hawk,
You teach us history, of Christ's little flock.
From Church's infancy, to Francis' papacy
Two thousand years, with you fly in a jiffy.
In class and Council, we will miss you.
For health and wisdom, we pray for you.
Remember us from Rome, and consider us home,
STS you have built, it will forever be your home.
STS
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...Continuation of the “ART OF CELEBRATING THE LITURGY”
Report by Fr. Moses WANJALA
In venturing more into the ars celebrandi, we
have, in the previous issue of the STS News,
already elucidated certain basic requisites for a
worthy and effective celebration of the Mystery of
Christ, for instance: the awareness of the
'Sacredness' of the liturgical actions plus our
attitude of interiority; the attitude of the assembly
and of the minister; Preparation and Planning,
Devoutness / commitment; Reverence to liturgical
articles; Gestures and Postures as an integral
part of Liturgy. Our reflections continue with a
focus on the Altar and Silence.
Respect for the altar: The altar occupies the
most important and central place in the Church
during the liturgical celebration of the Holy
Eucharist. It is such a powerful symbol of Jesus
Christ that recalls his ever dynamic, active and
efficacious presence in and among the gathered
liturgical assembly. The altar is thus the focal
point in worship. It is the corner stone of the new
construction of God for the spiritual nourishment
of His own people. It is the place of sacrifice
where Jesus Christ's self-immolation for human
salvation is symbolically and substantially made
real and also continually renewed. Some Fathers
of the Church testify that the altar is a tomb of our
Lord, i.e., a place where Christ was buried and on
which is set forth the true living bread from
20| June 2015
heaven, Jesus Christ himself. Thanks to that
empty tomb, God's people, especially those in
hopeless and desperate situations, find refuge and
hope through Jesus' Resurrection. The
Resurrection, evidenced by the empty tomb, is a
clear sign that every form of evil, including
emptiness in life, suffering and death, have no
more power over Christ and over us, his faithful
followers: “For we know that since Christ was
raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death
no longer has mastery
over him” (Rom 6:9).
By conquering death,
Jesus Christ becomes
our life and he calls us
to new life in Him (2
Tim 1:10; Rom 6: 4;
Rom 8: 11). The altar is
the table of the Lord
around which the
community of
believers gathers to
praise, worship and
thank God as they
partake of the
Eucharistic meal, i.e.,
to eat the body and
drink the blood of the
Lamb of God, Jesus
Christ, who takes away
the sins of the World (Jn
1:29). Owing to this fact of its centrality and
significance, the sacredness of the altar as a place
of sacrifice should always be observed,
preserved, safeguarded and respected.
God's sons and daughters, in ascending and
responding to His call through the liturgical
celebrations especially the Eucharist, make a sign
of reverence acknowledging the power and
generosity of the Father who is visibly present in
His Son by the action and guidance of the Holy
Spirit. As the celebrants and other ministers reach
the Presbyterium (Sanctuary), and as they face the
altar, they make the reverence with a profound
bow. In expressing the veneration, the Celebrant
and Deacon either kisses the altar or performs an
indigenous cultural symbol of reverence, and if
appropriate, he also incenses the cross and the
altar. On solemn occasions, the altar may be
incensed. Whenever the priest and other ministers
pass the altar, they venerate it by bowing before it.
Out of respect, it is thus clear that we should be
careful not to utilize the altar as a store of all sorts
of things. Only what is required for the
celebration of the Mass may be placed on the
altar: the Book of the Gospels, the Missal, the
corporal, the chalice with the paten, a ciborium,
the purificator and the pall. Microphone used to
amply the priest's voice may also be kept on the
altar. Candles may be placed either on or in front
of the altar. It is not encouraged to keep flowers on
the altar, but in front or around it. A crucifix is to
be kept either on or near the altar and it is to be
clearly visible to the Assembly. If there is already
a big crucifix in the sanctuary visible to the
faithful, there is no real need to have another
crucifix on the altar. Benedict XVI reflects that it
is both theologically and liturgically more correct
to have a cross in the middle of the altar other than
any other place in the sanctuary, as it can serve as
the “common point of focus for both priest and
praying community. In this way we obey the
ancient call to prayer: “converse ad Dominum”,
turn toward the Lord! In this way we look together
towards the One whose death tore the veil of the
Temple – the One who stands before the Father for
us and encloses us in his arms in order to make us
the new and living Temple. The Lord is the point
of reference. He is the rising sun of history”.
of the readings, after the homily, and after
Communion. Unfortunately some priests tend to
avoid observing these moments of silence.
Some people seem not to be quite aware of the
importance of silence in liturgy. It is not surprising
to hear people speaking on the top of their voices
in the Church as if they were in the market! Often
there is hardly any effort from the part of the
clergy and the religious to catechize the faithful
about the significance of silence before, during
and after the liturgical celebrations. True silence is
a silence for the entire assembly only when
everyone is silently praying and no one, not even
the presiding priest, is doing anything. Silence is
recommended even before the celebration itself.
It is recommended “in the church, in the sacristy,
in the vesting room, and in adjacent areas, so that
all may dispose themselves to carry out the sacred
celebration in a devout and fitting manner.” It is in
the silence of heart that we hear God really
speaking to us throughout the liturgical
celebrations especially in His Word that leads us
to communion with Him and others.
Care should be taken to avoid placing anything on
or around the altar that can become a cause of
distraction to the faithful. During the liturgical
celebration, the focus is the altar of Christ.
Finally, the altar should be covered with at least
one clean white cloth.
Sacred Silence: Liturgy is composed not only of
words and actions but also silence. Silence is not
just the absence of speech and action. It is a sign of
reflection and mediation, interiority and
adoration. It is a positive stillness, a time of
recollection and meditation on the Word and the
mystery being celebrated. God finds a welcome
home in us in an atmosphere of silence,
recollection and inner repose. This explains why
the assembled community is encouraged to
maintain short pauses of silence at designated
places in Liturgy. Few moments of silent
recollection is recommended in the Penitential
Act, after the priest's invitation to pray, after each
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In conclusion, Liturgy is the meeting point of the
person's intense relation and communication with
God. God, through Christ, invites the worshipper
into a deeper communion and intimacy with him.
The meeting is meant to effect a concrete
transformation in man. God touches and heals
man. He inspires and illumines the human mind
and uplifts his soul. Consequently, the worshipper
begins to acquire a better knowledge about God, a
deeper understanding of God's ways and a more
realistic vision of life and its purpose. This results
in: a re-orientation of the direction of man's
journey of faith; a re-focusing on the purpose of
life; a re-imaging of his faith-landscape; a re-
visioning of his network of vertical and horizontal
relationships; a renewal of his commitments and
project of life; a re-ordering of his priorities in
life; a re-formulation and concretization of his
ideals. This can be effectively facilitated through
the proper ars celebrandi which is a prerequisite
and a necessity for every member of the assembly
participating in the liturgical celebration.
Benedict XVI insists that the “primary way to
foster the participation of the People of God in the
sacred rite is the proper celebration of the rite
itself”. May every liturgical action lead us to the
real experience of the Person and Love of Christ.
CHRISTIANITY IN AFRICA: The First Seven Centuries
Dominique Arnauld
At the beginning of the third
millennium many young
Churches in Africa are
celebrating their silver, golden
or centenary jubilee… One
tends to forget that the
Christian past in Africa goes
way back to the time of the
Early Church. Some of the
Churches in Africa are among
the oldest members of the
Church Universal.
Not only has Africa been
present right from the
beginning of Christianity, but it
has played a major and founding role for the
formation of both the “ first Church” (Eastern)
and the “second Church” (Western). A better
awareness about this amazing past should help
those who belong today to the “third Church”
(Southern hemisphere) to find their place with a
legitimate pride.
The first seven centuries are a period of time that
does not entirely cover this glorious past of
African Christianity, but they belong to the
homogeneous Graeco-Roman Mediterranean
world. During the next period (8-15 centuries)
Christian Africa will live “in the House of Islam”
and will be marked by it in a different manner.
Many scientific works have been written about
these seven centuries of the History of
22| June 2015
Christianity; the interest of the author’s work lies
in his focus on the role of Africa and his
documented synthesis on the subject.
Dominique Arnauld belongs to the Society of the
Missionaries of Africa (White Fathers) and comes
from the Archdiocese of Bordeaux (France). He is
currently teaching Church History at the Studium
Theologicum Salesianum in Jerusalem. Ordained
priest in 1973, he has worked in Burkina Faso
(West Africa) for 14 years, in different parishes
and at the Major Seminary of Ouagadougou. He
has worked in the formation of missionaries at the
Missionary Institute London (G.B), at Toulouse
Institut Catholique (France), at Tangaza and
Hekima Colleges in Nairobi (Kenya). He holds a
Licentiate in Ecclesiastical History from the
Gregorian University (Rome).
ASSEMBLY OF THE TEACHING STAFF
& ACADEMIC COUNCIL MEETING
At the Assembly of the Academic Teaching Staff
for the closing of the year 2014-2015 on 4 June, a
magnanimous vote of thanks was shared with the
three outgoing professors.
Fr. Dominique
Arnauld, Fr. Kevin Mwandha, and Fr. Samuel
Obu. They will be missed here as they continue
their various assignments for their respective
communities.
The Academic Year was evaluated by staff and
also by the students whose comments were shared
by the principal, Fr. Biju Michael. All agreed that
the quality of learning is continually being raised
each year. There was an emphasis on the value of
student –teacher contact by both staff and students
and appreciation for the attention this is given
here at Studium Theologicum Salesianium. Other
valued options for students at STS are the vast
amount and variety of co-curricular experiences
offered to the students and staff throughout the
year from Archaeological Excursions to
Topographical Visits to the holy and historical
sites, to experiences in ecumenism to cultural
initiatives and to so much more.
Also impressive to the University is the variety of
countries represented each year. This year out of
57 students 29 different countries were
represented and 22 staff members came from 15
different countries. Together our Academic
community represented 34 Nations.
All are looking forward to the next academic year
and the continued excellence in the educative
process begun and fostered by the many “extras”
that are available here in the Holy Land.
The Academic Council held their last session for
the year immediately following the teaching staff
meeting
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EDITORIAL TEAM
Atindaana Cletus
Chu Paul Phuoc
Lourdswamy John Christopher
Pyle Colman Mary
Salesian Monastery Ratisbonne, 26 Shmuel Hanagid Str.,
P.O. Box 7336, 9107202 Jerusalem, ISRAEL
www.jerusalem.unisal.it