Undoubtedly, this academic year will be historical and exceptional in all respects. Despite the fact that the pandemic ravages in Poland and all over the world, at EST we are not slowing down and we are trying to face the challenges connected with it and overcome all the obstacles. The new model of education – online education, which seemed revolutionary, turned out to meet the expectations of the new students.
The statistics show it most clearly. Until today, 34 new students were enrolled for the academic year 2020/2021 and eight more candidates are awaiting their appointed recruitment interviews. Among the newly recruited students are residents of Norway, Great Britain (three persons), Germany, Bosnia as well as remote regions in Poland. They have not been able to study at EST because of the distance until now. The pandemic marked new possibilities, which we are trying to benefit from to the fullest. Obviously, this requires new models of working and infrastructure, so we are constantly learning to function in the new reality and apply new measures.
So, Inauguration of the new academic year, which has always been treated like a great festival at EST, will be held online on October, 13th. The program of the ceremony will feature outstanding guests as usual. The inaugurating lecture “Jesuits and Protestants – Eternal Enemies or Allies?” will be held by Professor Jerzy Kochanowicz, who is a well-known historian.
On October 16-18, the first extension weekend will take place in a virtual manner. The number of the 1st year students, their passion for Christ and hunger for knowledge about the Bible and theology encourage us and give us the feeling of a deep sense in our work.
Therefore, against all odds, we look forward to a fulfilling new academic year. We keep in mind the words of our Lord “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” (Is. 43,2) We believe in His abundant grace for us and all His promises about His protection and provision. We believe that the Lord has the power to keep us strong and He will lead us among all the difficulties, which are ahead of us.
Please pray for:
- Those who are diagnosed with Covid-19 at EST. Let them quickly recover and come back to full health.
- EST staff. Let their work will not be interrupted by any obstacles and let the Divine protection be with every member of the staff.
- EST students. Let the new academic year be the time of spiritual and mental breakthrough. Let the EST family encourage themselves and support one another in these difficult times.