HELLENIC COLLEGE HOLY CROSS TO HOLD COMMENCEMENT ONLINE

In keeping with CDC guidelines and restrictions on large gatherings by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Hellenic College Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology will not hold its traditional graduation exercises on May 9, as had been planned prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Instead, following the example of many other academic institutions throughout the United States, a virtual gathering will be held and live-streamed for viewing by graduates and their families and friends from the safety of their homes. Planning is underway by HCHC’s leadership for a ceremony that will appropriately acknowledge the graduates’ achievements and convey the school’s best wishes as they go out into the world. Details will be shared publicly in due course.

It is especially unfortunate that HCHC will not be able to celebrate the long-anticipated visit of His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, whose intention it was to extend to the school the great and unprecedented honor of presiding over graduation. Given the circumstances, however, the postponement of his trip to the US is certainly appropriate. As always, the HCHC community joins with faithful Orthodox Christians around the world in praying for the continued good health of His All Holiness.