On September 26 and 27, the community of the Adventist University Institute "Villa Aurora", in Florence, came together to celebrate the opening ceremony of the new academic year, 2025-2026. This event marks the beginning of a shared educational and spiritual journey.
The ceremony began on Friday evening with a spiritual reflection led by Saverio Scuccimarri, Dean of the Faculty of Theology (FAT), who introduced this year's motto, "Called to Go." He started with the biblical text from Hebrews 11:8, citing the example of Abraham, who, called by God to embark on a journey into the unknown, trusted in the divine promise.
Saturday started with Sabbath School, a time dedicated to sharing and discussing a biblical topic studied throughout the week. This was followed by a welcoming session, an important moment where new students from FAT and the DiLCAI program (Italian Language and Culture Course for Foreigners) were introduced, along with the volunteers. Together, they will enrich the academic community. The morning concluded with a sermon by Alessandra Pecchioli and Nestor H. Petruk, theology professors, who emphasized the beauty and responsibility of God's calling, inviting everyone to respond with faith and courage.
In the afternoon, the ceremony continued with a moment of praise, and the introduction of FAT and DiLCAI staff and faculty, reaffirming the central role of the academic body in the students' formation. A special event made the opening of the year even more solemn: the awarding of a theology degree to Benjamin Dwomoh, who celebrated the completion of his studies with great joy and gratitude.
The entire weekend testified to the strength of the community, united in the start of a new journey. The Adventist University Institute "Villa Aurora" reaffirms itself as a place where study, spirituality, and communal life intertwine, under the banner of a calling that invites everyone to go forth in faith and walk with courage.
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