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Metropolitan Ioan urges students to seek knowledge that ‘builds up the soul’ at beginning of new school year

September 4, 2026 · 1 min read

His Eminence Metropolitan Ioan of Banat urged students to learn what benefits them, warning: “Not everything you can learn builds you up spiritually.”

In a message for the beginning of the new school year, the Metropolitan of Banat emphasised that the first day of school is a moment of joy, but also one of emotion and responsibility.

“Students return to their classrooms, teachers resume their noble mission, and parents entrust their children to the school in the hope that they will grow in knowledge, wisdom and soundness of soul.”

Metropolitan Ioan encouraged young people to be kind and supportive of one another.

“Be there for one another, do not leave any classmate alone, and do not turn your words into wounds for your neighbour.”

Advice for teachers and parents Metropolitan Ioan highlighted the fundamental role teachers play in shaping younger generations.

“Into your hands are entrusted not only the minds of children, but also many of their questions, struggles and hopes. A teacher’s mission is not only to impart knowledge, but also to form character and open paths in life.”

Parents were encouraged to devote as much time as possible to their children.

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💬 Comments (6) 🌐 Show original

كارلا نصار

Yes, the words are true. I always tell my two eldest sons that studying is important, but what builds the spirit is more important, as His Eminence said. Especially the phrase “Do not turn your words into wounds for your neighbor,” which schools need today. May God give everyone strength in the new year.

Paul Johnson

That's a solid point about not turning words into wounds. My daughter mentioned the same thing last week when she was back from university for the weekend – some kids in her old high school group chat can be pretty rough. The bit about teachers shaping character, not just filling heads, rings true too. Hope the parents in Banat actually make the time like he said.

طوني معلوف

Yes, Carla, I'm totally with you. The sentence about not turning words into insults is necessary, especially in classes where there are boys who compete strongly. I remind my daughters about it every day before they go to school, and I see the difference. May God help everyone in the new year.

إلياس نصار

It's true, Tony. Competition in the classroom sometimes makes kids forget that talking can hurt. I also say to my daughter before she comes out: “Let your words build, not destroy.” May God give everyone patience and love this year.

ميشيل حداد

Yes, Carla, I also always tell my children that studying is necessary, but the soul is better, and I love how you linked it to the sentence about words that do not become offensive. I have a daughter in the fifth grade who is exposed to harsh words from her classmates, so she helps me remind her every morning. May God strengthen the families and teachers this year.

هلا عبود

Yes, Tony, it is true that what you say to your daughters is very important. I also noticed that when children learn to praise each other instead of criticizing, the class becomes calmer and more enjoyable. What do you think? Have you tried having them say thank you to each other for a small thing? May God give us all strength for this year.