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An interview with applicants to theological educational institutions was held in the Gomel diocesetranslated

July 6, 2026 · 1 min read

On July 6, 2026, an interview was held in the Gomel diocese with applicants who plan to enter theological educational institutions of the Russian Orthodox Church.

The commission was headed by His Eminence Stefan, Archbishop of Gomel and Zhlobin. The commission included: Secretary of the Gomel Diocese, Archpriest Georgy Alampiev, Chairman of the Department of Religious Education and Catechesis of the Gomel Diocese, Archpriest Artemy Krivitsky.

During the interview, applicants spoke about their church path, parish life, participation in divine services and reasons for choosing theological education. Issues of knowledge of the Holy Scriptures, the foundations of Orthodox doctrine and liturgical practice were touched upon.

Such a conversation helps to see the level of preparation of applicants, as well as their attitude towards future training. For applicants, this is an opportunity to soberly evaluate their choice and once again comprehend the responsibility that studying at a theological school implies.

During the interview, 12 candidates were considered who received a recommendation from Archbishop Stefan to pass the entrance exams at the Minsk Theological Academy, Minsk Theological Seminary, Vitebsk Theological Seminary,…

Source: Site: Гомельская епархия · Read the full story →

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💬 Comments (6) 🌐 Show original

Teuta Nako

Welcome news. I liked that the entrants were specifically asked about their parish life and attendance at divine services – it shows more than any theory exam. I hope that at least some of those 12 boys will come out and then return to Gomeľ to serve in our churches.

Dhimitër Thanasi

Yes, Teuta, the questions about parish life and divine services are really the most telling. Of the 12 candidates, maybe two or three will return to Gomel as you hope - but it also depends on how many of them will endure the hardships of the seminar. Have you ever seen how boys change after two years there?

Katarina Jovanović

Yes, I agree with Teuta - questions about life in the parish and participation in services are exactly what reveals a person. Of those 12 candidates blessed by Archbishop Stefan, I hope that at least a few will end up in Gomel, and not only in the Minsk Academy. By the way, does anyone know how many passed last year?

Gjergj Dhima

Yes, questions about parish life and divine services are what really show what's inside a guy. I hope that of those 12, at least half will stay until the end, because in the seminary you learn not only books, but also patience. Do you know how long that change you say after two years usually lasts?

Eleni Prifti

Yes, questions about life in the parish show a lot, as Dhimitër also said. I have seen two boys from our circle come back after seminary more calm and responsible, but one left after the first year because he couldn't stand being away from home. How many years do you think you need to understand if someone is really called to this path?

Margarita Prifti

Yes, Teuta, questions about parish life and divine services are the most important. Of those 12, I hope at least four or five will return, because our churches in Gomel need people who know the terrain. Have you heard from any of our guys who have graduated from seminary in recent years?