On 19-21 November 2024, the Pontifical John Paul II University in Krakow hosted lecturers from the University of Prešov - doc. ThDr. Ján Husár, PhD. and doc. ThDr. Štefan Šak, Phd. The visit took place within the framework of the Erasmus+ programme and was aimed at exchanging teaching experiences, developing academic qualifications and deepening cooperation between the universities in the fields of theology and culture.

During their stay, Prof. Ján Husár and Prof. Štefan Šák gave lectures to students of the Faculty of Theology at UPJPII on a number of interesting theological and social topics. Professor Ján Husár focused on issues related to biblical studies and their application in teaching and social life. His presentations included the spiritual resurrection of Zacchaeus, the social aspect of the Decalogue, the relationship of Scripture to ecology and consumerism, and the exegesis of the Gospels in a liturgical context. He also reflected on the Merciful Samaritan in social terms, the primary role of iconography and the significance of Good Friday as the culmination of Lent. St John Chrysostom's contribution to the interpretation of Scripture was also an interesting topic.

Professor Štefan Šák focused on the spirituality and liturgical life of the Orthodox Church. Among the topics he discussed were the missionary activities of the Orthodox Church in Africa, the Eucharistic dimension of the Church's life and its influence on the younger generations. He also introduced the ascetic dimension of the spiritual life, the importance of the Nittite Fathers in human therapy and the role of the liturgy in the healing of the soul. He also spoke about the diaconia of the Church in the context of the modern world and the importance of prayer and fasting in the life of the faithful.

The visit was an excellent opportunity to exchange experiences, expand teaching materials and implement new trends in theological thinking. UPJPII students had the opportunity to attend classes taught by lecturers from another European country and church tradition, which enriched their knowledge and perspectives.

The cooperation with the University of Prešov fits perfectly into the University's strategy of internationalisation and development of the quality of education, and is an important step in deepening the academic and scientific relations between the institutions.