“Thy words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart" (Jeremiah 15:16) was this year's motto for the Pastoral Work Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) annual Graduates Dinner organized by Campus Ministry Office, which was held on July 13, 2017, at La'mouché restaurant, Ghosta.
This year, 21 Pastoral Work senior graduates joined the ranks of the University alumni. The celebration kicked off in the presence of University Chaplain General Fr. George Nassif and University Chaplain Fr. Marc Khoubbieh as well as Shouf Campus (SC) University Chaplain Fr. Walid Nassif and Assistant to the Director Fr. Dominique Nasr, Administrative Assistant to the University Chaplain General Solange El Helou as well as a host of Pastoral Work members who came to celebrate with and honor the fresh graduates.
Fr. George Nassif talked about "joy," this year's theme, and invited the graduates to rejoice in the Lord and to consecrate their freedom to bring joy and goodness to the world. For his part, Fr. Khoubbieh congratulated the students on their achievements and reminded them to continuously pray throughout their life journey and to trust God's will. The participants were given a trip down memory lane when a short video was screened that summarized the many moments the Class 2017 graduates experienced.
Pastoral Work Secretary and Communication Consultant at NDU Eva Oueiss delivered the congratulatory speech. Oueiss said, "You made the right choice by joining NDU and belonging to the Pastoral Work family where we shared our ambitions, smiles, and tears, and together discovered the joy of giving. And now you are meant to become NDU ambassadors and to draw with faith and hope the path of your own unique journey. Remember the treasured moments that we shared in the service of humanity through the examples that Jesus and the Virgin Mary taught us, and cherish those memories. May the Lord, the Holy Spirit, and the Lady of Louaize guide your future endeavors."
Finally, the graduates walked to the stage to receive the tokens of appreciation that were especially designed for the occasion in recognition of their contributions to the Pastoral Work group. The tokens were adorned with an icon of our Lady of Louaize.
Following the presentations, the graduates enjoyed an all-night festive celebration.
Congratulations Class of 2017!