Graduating for His Glory
This year, ABTS celebrated the graduation of 32 students from various Arab countries, marking the highest number of graduates in the seminary’s history. We rejoiced as each student stepped forward to receive the fruit of what they had diligently sown.
The night before graduation, students, staff and faculty gathered for a special evening to hear testimonies and enjoy a time of fellowship. It was a privilege to witness God’s transformative work in the students’ lives. Many shared how studying at ABTS shaped their character, strengthened their faith, and provided a supportive and welcoming environment throughout their academic journey.
Tonina, a Certificate in Ministry graduate, reflected:
Each course and instructor challenged me, always pushing me out of my comfort zone and encouraging my growth. Despite the difficulties I faced at church and the moments when I considered quitting, the tutors consistently supported me. I felt that I could reach out to any instructor for guidance, even if they were not directly teaching me. I have not encountered the same sense of closeness elsewhere. ABTS is truly unique. I also appreciate its holistic approach, encompassing not just one denomination but all of Christianity.
During the ceremony, our graduates were reminded of their role in the Kingdom of God. Former ABTS president, Elie Haddad, reflected on the importance of equipping men and women during times like these, noting that as the Church grows, there is an ever-increasing need for committed leaders and strong seminaries. Riad Kassis, ABTS Board Chair, encouraged graduates: “You are the only Bible some people will ever read.” This reminder challenged each graduate to live out Christ’s teachings and reflect His image in every aspect of life.
The keynote speaker, Anne Zaki, emphasized that every believer has a unique calling. Drawing inspiration from the story of King Josiah, his mother Jedidah, and prophetess Huldah, she encouraged students to be ready, shaped by Christ and His word, to be used by God at the right time, all for His glory.
Additionally, during the event Walid Zailaa, Academic Dean, presented the Ghassan Khalaf Award for the best article, titled “A Call to Practice Biblical Lament in Worship”, to Elia Shehata, an MTh student and lead of the Certificate in Ministry program at ABTS.
Graduation is a milestone, but not an end. It marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and service. The ceremony concluded with a moving worship song, “Ain’t Got Time to Die”. As the song reminds us, may our graduates continue to “keep so busy working for the Kingdom”.
Anne, ABTS graduates and faculty, Walid and Elia