After 14 months of intensive planning and construction, the new facilities for the Theology department of Seminary Schloss Bogenhofen were ceremoniously inaugurated in time for the start of the new school and academic year.
What began as a mere idea during the planning of a new video studio has transformed into a comprehensive renovation project, now successfully completed, as announced by the seminary.
"I have witnessed every day of this renovation and still find it hard to believe that we are gathered here today for the inauguration," remarked Managing Director Max Wieser during his opening speech. Just a few weeks ago, a timely completion seemed nearly impossible, making the successful outcome all the more gratifying.
The History of the Renovation
The vision to convert the administrative spaces into facilities for the Theology department was first proposed in July 2024 by Lorant Soós, one of the technical staff at the seminary. This idea quickly gained the support of architects Beatrix and Michael Menschhorn, as well as the Ferdinand-Pieringer Association, which secured the necessary funding, and the school committee — the key governing body that approved the project. "I have never encountered a project that passed through all committees so swiftly, was received with such immediate enthusiasm, and secured the required financial resources through donations almost instantly," stated Principal Dr. Dr. René Gehring in his address.
Construction commenced in April 2025 with the installation of a suspended ceiling in the foyer. Throughout the project, many challenges arose — from the urgent relocation of the "Adventist Book Centers" to bottlenecks in specific trades and building components. Thanks to the tireless dedication of several volunteers, who worked on-site during their vacations or after hours, and the professional coordination by the architects, all obstacles were successfully navigated, according to the school administration.
Significant Personal and Financial Commitment
Special recognition was given to brothers Lorant and Robert Soós, who accomplished "literally superhuman" feats in the weeks leading up to completion. "On one occasion, Lori began work at 3:30 AM and did not finish until 10:30 PM. Without the passionate commitment from him and others, a timely completion would not have been possible," remarked Managing Director Max Wieser.
The realization of this project was made possible only through the financial support of the Ferdinand-Pieringer Association. In recognition of this contribution, Zsolt Halmi, as chairman of the Ferdinand Pieringer Association, had the opportunity to emphasize the significance of the new facilities and the entire Theology department of Bogenhofen.
The Symbolic Importance of the New Facilities
The closing remarks were delivered by Martin Pröbstle (PhD), Dean of the Theological Seminary, who illustrated the evolution of the seminary from a small room in the Old Chapel to two long-term classrooms in the basement of the boys' dormitory, culminating in the elevated space above the cafeteria with views of the campus. This progression symbolically underscores the special significance of the Theology department for campus life. The names of the two new classrooms pay homage to the great theological achievements of the past (Martin Luther Class) while also highlighting the seminary's mission to engage with the highest quality both theologically and missionally (John Andrews Class), Pröbstle remarked.
The School Administration Also Relocated
The cost-effective construction of the new facilities was facilitated by the relocation of the administration, which is now situated in a former classroom. A new lounge serves as a bridge between the administrative space and the Theological Seminary, inviting students to relax and work comfortably.
Seminary Schloss Bogenhofen
Founded in 1949 by the Austrian and German-Swiss Churches of Seventh-day Adventists, the Seminary Schloss Bogenhofen is located near Braunau/Inn (Upper Austria), close to the German border. It serves as an educational institution for aspiring Adventist pastors (Theological Seminary) and high school graduates (Upper Secondary Real Gymnasium, state-recognized). A language school is also available for those seeking to acquire proficiency in the German language.
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