December, 2018 – Christmas is all about love – manifested in the sharing of a noble ideal, a warm smile, and a kind word.
Under the guidance and support of Fr. Naji Khalil, Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) Shouf Campus Director, the Administration prepared a charity lunch on campus to share their Christmas with the needy and the elderly on December 13, 2018. The Shouf family spent memorable moments with the senior citizens and those in need; there was an atmosphere of companionship and entertainment in celebration of Jesus’ birth. When the event was over, the guests left with gifts but more importantly with a beautiful Christmas memory – knowing they are remembered, loved, and cared for.
On December 20, 2018, the Shouf Campus members came together for their annual Christmas mass, which was held, at the Mar Abda Church. Fr. Khalil, along with Fr. Walid Nassif, the University Chaplain, celebrated mass. In his sermon, Fr. Khalil concentrated on the greatness and true meaning of Christmas emphasizing the modesty of the Savior, who came to this world and dwelled with us so that through Him, we could have eternal life. “Pondering the birth of the Lord can fill our hearts with the blessings and joy of this holy season,” Fr. Khalil said, wishing the NDU community a special Christmas of love, and serenity. The day ended with the exchange of toasts as the Pastoral Group distributed Christmas candles to everyone.
NDU Shouf Campus organized a special Christmas recital in the Conference Room on December 21, 2018. Guesting singers, Charbel Al Kadi and his spouse, Olga, accompanied by St. Rafka Sehaileh Children Choir, presented a performance of Christmas carols and hymns.
Fr. Khalil welcomed the guests who came from different regions and wished them a very peaceful and merry Christmas, and presented flowers to the singers as a token of appreciation.
Amidst the holiday rush and cheer, the NDU Shouf Campus family took time off to celebrate Christmas together. Father Khalil invited faculty, staff, and administrators to a dinner at Phoenicia Intercontinental Hotel – Mosaic Section, on December 28, 2018. While toasting the invitees, Fr. Khalil commended their hard work and the value NDU brings to the entire Shouf and Southern Lebanon community. Celebrations and well-wishes were shared as everyone enjoyed the food and drinks.