Luther Academy Celebrates the Beginning of Its 30th Academic Year

September 1 marks the beginning of a new academic year at Luther Academy, as it does year after year. This year, however, the date carried special significance. For the thirtieth time since the Academy’s founding, the Luther Academy community gathered together to give thanks for the years that have passed and to look ahead with hope and commitment to a new academic year. In the 2026/2027 academic year, 106 students will pursue their studies through both on-campus and distance learning, guided and supported by a team of 27 lecturers.

The sermon during the service was delivered by Archbishop and Deputy Rector of Luther Academy Rinalds Grants. He spoke about the sacrifices required by academic studies — late nights, sleepless hours, and the challenges they can bring to our relationships — but emphasized that it is precisely in these moments that we allow God to shape us. Addressing the concerning situation in the region, he encouraged everyone to remain vigilant, while not creating tension where it is not necessary.

The greater part of Rinalds Grants’ address focused on the Apostle Paul’s teaching about not repaying evil with evil, even though “an eye for an eye” is often regarded as the norm. He reminded us that revenge only multiplies evil, because our minds feed on what we are planning, whereas by refusing to respond with evil, we give the one who has wronged us an opportunity to change. Hatred breeds hatred, but love has the power to transform an enemy into a friend. This does not mean excusing injustice or acting cowardly. If we seek just retribution, it should be left in God’s hands, as we see in the Psalms of David. In conclusion, he described Luther Academy as a place where the Word becomes embodied both in the teaching of the Law and in our relationships, and where we learn not to become proud, but to pass on the love of Christ to others.

The event was hosted by Helēna Andresone, Vice-Rector for Studies at Luther Academy, who reminded those gathered of the significance of this anniversary: this is the 30th time that September 1 has been celebrated at Luther Academy, while also marking 15 years of Jānis Vanags serving as Rector of the Academy.

In his address, Rector Jānis Vanags reflected on Luther Academy as a place of unique experience. He emphasized the Church’s apostolic succession and the importance of the liturgy, noting that one of the most important decisions that has enabled these values to be preserved and passed on was the timely decision to establish Luther Academy.

J. Vanags noted that what makes the Academy special is its inner spiritual life. No one can take another person’s own experience with God upon themselves — and this is precisely why the Academy is unique in its Vespers services, Motivation Days, and fellowship gatherings. In these changing times, when artificial intelligence is developing rapidly, he suggested that the Academy is building a kind of Noah’s Ark for humanity.

The Rector also emphasized the close bonds and warmth shared among students, lecturers, and staff. Referring to the image used by Ignatius of Antioch, who compared the Church to a harp, he reminded the audience that research is carried out at Luther Academy and that there is academic freedom to explore a wide range of questions. Yet, at the same time, the Academy community remains united in harmony, because together they “sing to Christ through the strings.”

During the event, 11 first-year students introduced themselves. In the new academic year, 9 students are beginning the first year of the Bachelor’s programme in Theology, while 8 students are beginning the continuing education programme Theology and Ministry.

 May God’s guidance and blessing be upon the curious, dedicated, and beloved community of Luther Academy throughout the 2026/2027 academic year!

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