On September 12, the Salesian church Don Bosco de Nazaret inaugurated the Instituto Teológico de la Anunciación, the first academic center for theological training in Galilee dedicated particularly to the laity.
The ceremony was presided over by Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, accompanied by several bishops from the region: Monsignor Rafiq Nahra, patriarchal vicar for Galilee; Monsignor Bolous Marcuzzo, Melkite Greek-Catholic archbishop; Monsignor Youssef Matta, Greek-Melkite archbishop of Acre, Haifa, and Nazareth; and Monsignor Moussa El-Hage, Maronite archbishop of Haifa and the Holy Land. Priests, religious sisters, and numerous faithful also participated.
The Salesian imprint in the Holy Land
The choice of location was not casual. The historic Don Bosco church and school in Nazareth reflects the fundamental role of the Salesians in the ecclesial and social life of the Holy Land. According to Father Mounir Al-Rai SDB, the institute’s first director, the inauguration represents “a blessed day, in which the mind meets the spirit and knowledge meets faith.”
The Salesian charism thus once again shows its ability to intertwine with the needs of the local Church, placing at the center the formation and accompaniment of the laity.
A new voice for the Church in Galilee
In his speech, Cardinal Pizzaballa defined the new center as “a new voice for the Church in Galilee” and linked it to a long-cherished dream, in continuity with training initiatives in Beit Jala, Jerusalem, and Ramallah.
Monsignor Matta highlighted that the Institute will allow the laity to rediscover the Word of God and live it in depth, thus preparing to respond to the cultural and social challenges of today.
Roots in faith, fruits in service
The Institute’s motto—“Roots in faith, fruits in service”—summarizes its mission: to offer solid theological training, oriented both to ecclesial service and social commitment, and to foster dialogue with the diverse cultures and religions of the region.
The patriarch recalled that the formation received in childhood is not sufficient to sustain adult life: “A deepening is needed that makes faith more conscious and rooted in hearts.”
The two-year program will lead to an official diploma, equipping men and women to witness to the Gospel with competence, commitment, and passion.
A mission for the “living stones” of the Holy Land
In a context where Christians are called “living stones,” the Institute proposes itself as a laboratory of faith and thought, nourished by study, prayer, and reflection. “Our mission—affirmed Father Al-Rai—is to prepare men and women to serve the Gospel, bringing a message of love and peace to society and the homeland.”
The ceremony concluded with the Our Father prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to accompany teachers and students on this new path.