February 9, 2019 – The Pastoral Community and Campus Ministry at Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) jointly organized a visit to the community “Anta Akhi” in Ballouneh, on the occasion of the World Day of the Sick and the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.
The day began with a warm welcome and an explanation of the Anta Akhi family and how they support people with disabilities. The community then listened to the testimony of Ghassan, one of the brothers at Anta Akhi, who filled their hearts with hope and joy.
The Pastoral community met the adults with disabilities. They shared a joyous time together: laughing, playing and experiencing deep fraternal joy.
University Chaplain Fr. Jean-Pierre Eid celebrated Mass, accompanied by the Pastoral Community choir. In his homily, Fr. Eid explained how we can deepen our Maronite Spirituality, regardless our physical situation, through prayer, patience, and faith in God.
The day ended with a general gathering between the Anta Akhi family and the NDU Pastoral Community sharing feedback of the day. They discussed how each member was deeply touched by the experience, and how each person is dear to God’s heart and part of His family.
“People are much more than they appear to be: each person possesses a mystery that shall only be revealed by acts of faith and trust.” (One of the 10 Anta Akhi creeds).