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“To honor the image of God in humanity is to choose responsibility over destruction, order over chaos, and reverence for life over the normalization of violence,” affirmed Dr. Nicolas Abou Mrad, Professor of Biblical Studies, independent researcher, and author, in his address to the graduating Class of 2026.
Dr. Abou Mrad delivered the keynote message during the Baccalaureate Service of Haigazian University, held on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the First Armenian Evangelical Church adjacent to the University campus. The service brought together graduating students, faculty, staff, family members, and friends in a sanctuary filled to capacity for this solemn occasion of thanksgiving, reflection, and dedication.
In his keynote address, entitled “Peace I Leave with You,” Dr. Abou Mrad underscored the urgent need for societies to cultivate not merely skilled professionals, but individuals endowed with wisdom, discernment, and moral responsibility. Drawing upon the biblical understanding of peace, he emphasized that genuine peace does not eliminate differences; rather, it equips individuals and communities to engage differences constructively, humanely, and with mutual respect.
Calling upon graduates to resist cynicism and despair, Dr. Abou Mrad urged them to commit themselves to the building of societies grounded in truth, the protection of human dignity, and the pursuit of peace. “Peace is sustained not by passivity, but by moral courage and disciplined restraint,” he remarked. Expanding on this theme, he added, “To honor the image of God in humanity is to choose responsibility over destruction, order over chaos, and reverence for life over the normalization of violence.”
Addressing the graduates, Haigazian University President Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian highlighted the importance of cultivating what he described as “the gratitude of the heart.”
“In an age increasingly preoccupied with self-image, achievement, and self-definition,” he observed, “we risk overlooking the deeper reality: the image of a loving, creative, faithful, and comforting God.” He further noted that contemporary society is marked by growing anxiety and uncertainty, and suggested gratitude as one of the most profound antidotes. “One of the most effective remedies for anxiety is gratitude—gratitude toward God, expressed also through thankfulness to others,” he said.
Reflecting on the significance of graduation, Dr. Haidostian acknowledged the value of academic accomplishments and the recognition they merit. Yet, he reminded graduates that lasting significance requires a deeper foundation: “No degree, salary, title, or distinction is ultimately as valuable as a heart that carries and spreads gratitude.”
The service was enriched by the active participation of graduating students. Sandra Siwahji, Jeanne d’Arc Davoulbeyukian, and Sergio Ayoub offered readings from the Old and New Testaments, while Iman Del Valle Bonji reflected on her years at Haigazian University. Musical selections included a rendition of “The Prayer” by Arman Der Bedrossian, accompanied by John Beylerian on percussion, Narek Karapetyan on saxophone, and Marc Gulgulian on piano.
Arenie Pioni Akrian and Karim Hariri led the graduates in the traditional pledge, declaring:
“We, the Class of 2026 of Haigazian University, in receiving this light, pledge to hold high the light of truth, to defend the light of freedom, and to spread the light of service to our communities, our country, and our world. With truth, freedom, and service illuminating our hearts, we will challenge each other and our world to uphold the worth of every human being, and we will strive for the betterment of society, knowing that this is pleasing to God.”
The service also featured the Call to Worship and the Benediction offered by Rev. Wilbert Van Saane, Campus Minister of Haigazian University.
The ceremony concluded with the Class of 2026 processing from the sanctuary, each graduate carrying a symbolic light representing truth, freedom, and service. The graduates then gathered with President Haidostian for the traditional commemorative group photograph, marking the close of a meaningful celebration and the beginning of a new chapter of service and leadership.
Mira Yardemian
Public Relations Director
