Unusual Christmas Meeting at Faculty of Theology

It was the first such meeting in Opole, and the idea to organize it at the Faculty of Theology of the University of Opole was put forward by the Bishop of Opole, Rev. Prof. Andrzej Czaja.

About two hundred students (studying at the University of Opole and the Opole University of Technology) from many countries, including India, China, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Belarus, Turkey and Azerbaijan. listened with admiration to Christmas carols and songs performed by the choir of the Opole University of Technology, and also took part in an improvised dance to symbolise friendship and solidarity.

Students from abroad eagerly presented folklore of their countries; we had an opportunity to see Hindu and Ukrainian dances or listen to vocal performances.

The young people gathered in the hall were addressed by Prof. Janusz Słodczyk, Vice-Rector of the UO for Research and Finance. - I am happy to be here with you today. As a university we try to conduct the widest possible international cooperation, which results in your presence here today. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and the fulfilment of your plans.

Prof. Krzysztof Malik, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Technology, honorary consul of Ukraine in Opole and a representative of the German consulate also gave their greetings to foreign students.

Bishop Andrzej Czaja also addressed the guests with short words explaining the essence of Christmas - the most joyful holidays, holidays of joy, reconciliation. - We believe that God comes down to us not in glory, power, strength, but as a child who comes into the world in poverty and cold - he said. - A child who is born in a stable, a place called home by the visiting wise men from the East. For us Christians, it is a sign that the home is everywhere where there are people who love and respect one another.

Bishop Czaja also added that the symbol of this love, respect and unity is the custom of sharing a wafer.

- By organizing this meeting we wanted to show foreign students that the essence of our Christmas is that nobody should be alone at that time, - said bishop Czaja. - When we welcome someone to the Christmas table, we welcome Jesus. And this is the real, most important dimension of Christmas.

Young people tasted Polish Christmas dishes; borscht with ravioli, pastries with cabbage and mushrooms or cakes quickly disappeared from the lavishly set tables.