AECMC

On July 31, 2026, the latest academic year at the ROCOR Liturgical Summer School (European Department) concluded. As usual, classes were held daily over a two-week period at the Church of the Holy Great Martyr Panteleimon in Cologne, Germany. Participants in the core three-year program for choir directors, singers, and readers completed over 100 hours of coursework across ten subjects and took part in ten divine services. Third-year students prepared their final projects, mastered the fundamentals of conducting and working with a choir on a musical piece. As a final graduation project, the graduates conducted musical piece of their own choice. Another requirement for successfully completing the course was conducting divine services with the student choir.

 

We congratulate this year’s graduate, Svetlana Lohman.

 

Although the number of students was lower this year compared to previous intakes, the classes were conducted intensively, allowing for a nearly individual approach to each student. A friendly atmosphere prevailed within the group, with more experienced students happily assisting beginners. Students noted the wide range of theoretical and practical skills acquired during their training. The opportunity to participate in divine services allowed them to experience the nuances within the services and to practice conducting the choir.

 

The services on July 25 and 26 were presided over by Bishop Job of Stuttgart, Vicar of the German Diocese. Following the Sunday Liturgy, Bishop Job delivered a presentation and answered numerous questions from the students.

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The organizers and teachers of the school express their gratitude to His Eminence Metropolitan Mark and His Grace Bishop Irenei, as well as His Grace Bishop Job for their support of such an important mission, as well as deep appreciation to the parish of St. Panteleimon for the excellent organization of housing and educational conditions. The school benefited from the generous support of the Fund for Assistance to the ROCOR.