On March 19, 2026, Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) celebrated its annual patronal feast at Saint Joseph Church of the Jesuit Fathers, on Saint Joseph University Street, Monnot, Ashrafieh. The event brought together distinguished members from the University’s community, as well as prominent political, diplomatic, and academic figures.

The celebration opened with a Mass presided over by Reverend Father Michael Zammit, SJ, Provincial of the Society of Jesus in the Near East and Maghreb. Prof. François Boëdec, SJ, Rector of USJ, then delivered an address entitled “The University in the Face of the Risks of a Dehumanizing World.”

In a moment marked by deep national and global uncertainty, Prof. Boëdec reflected on the crises confronting Lebanon today and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to support its community while calling for an approach that goes beyond emergency responses, aiming for lasting and meaningful impact.

Following a longstanding tradition, he framed the patronal feast as an opportunity for collective reflection, capturing both the aspirations and concerns of the University and, at times, those of the nation.

He focused on the major transformations affecting the contemporary world: climate crises, conflicts, technological upheavals, and the fragility of democracies. Amid these uncertainties, he warned against a major risk: the gradual dehumanization of society, in which humans are reduced to mere instruments of economic or technical utility.

Addressing these pressing issues, he underscored the University’s core responsibility: to form men and women capable of thoughtful reflection, sound judgment, and responsible action. USJ seeks not only academic excellence but also to nurture a deep understanding of humanity and society.

Prof. Boëdec proposed five fundamental attitudes to guide the University’s educational mission:

Rootedness, Interiority, and Depth. “To form men and women who are rooted,” he said, enabling them to stand firm amid the turbulence of the world. In a world marked by fragmentation and uncertainty, he emphasized that “the challenge is to develop roots and foundations that allow us to stand firm rather than becoming like straw carried away by every wave and every current.”

Not to Have an Accustomed Soul. Resisting indifference and passivity is essential. “One of the risks is that we become accustomed to what is happening around us,” he warned, calling for vigilance in “keeping our personal and national consciences alive,” and a constant commitment to truth and justice.

Cultivating a Broad Vision. “Accepting a broad vision that can see far into the distance,” he explained, enables one to go beyond fragmented approaches and connect different realities for a deeper understanding.

Learning How to Listen and How to Speak. “Listening is never a sign of weakness,” he affirmed. Respectful dialogue and debate, he noted, are crucial for fostering democratic and civic life.

Concern for Others. “The knowledge and skills that are acquired should not be kept only for personal advantage,” he reminded. The University must “form men and women for others,” instilling a sense of responsibility toward society and the broader community.

Paying tribute to USJ’s history, Prof. Boëdec recalled the sacrifice of figures such as Father Alban de Jerphanion, assassinated in 1976, whose life exemplified a steadfast commitment to Lebanon. “Our task now is to continue,” he urged, calling on all to embrace this mission with determination.

In conclusion, he delivered a message of hope and collective responsibility: “We must remain standing and support one another so that together we may continue to care for this precious and fragile humanity.” He emphasized that “it is through this commitment that Saint Joseph University will fully accomplish its mission” and continue to distinguish itself as an institution devoted to humanity and society.

On the occasion of World Hearing Day, the Department of Otolaryngology, in collaboration with Promedz, organized an awareness campaign in the hospital lobby.

This interactive day, open to patients, visitors, and staff, provided an opportunity for enriching exchanges with ENT specialists on the importance of hearing health.

Free hearing tests, early screening for hearing disorders in children, and personalized guidance were offered to promote prevention and regular follow-up.

Hôtel-Dieu de France has achieved a new milestone in medical innovation by performing, the first percutaneous implantation of a self-expanding pulmonary valve, deployed without a balloon and positioned directly at the pulmonary site.

The procedure, conducted under the supervision of Prof. Zakhia Saliba and his medical and nursing team, represents a major advance in interventional techniques for congenital cardiology.

Notably, Prof. Zakhia Saliba was also the pioneer behind the world’s first implantation in 2000 in France.

This breakthrough provides new therapeutic options for patients with congenital heart defects who have already undergone multiple surgeries and have significant pulmonary artery dilation. The device offers a less invasive alternative, especially for patients with compromised right ventricular function.

This national first underscores Hôtel-Dieu de France’s ongoing dedication to medical excellence, technological innovation, and the advancement of state-of-the-art interventional techniques, fully aligned with the highest international standards.

On the occasion of the 34th World Day of the Sick, Hôtel-Dieu de France celebrated a Mass on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at the N. and H. Obegi Auditorium. The hospital and university community gathered to share a moment of prayer and reflection.

The celebration was presided over by Fr. François Boëdec, Rector of Saint Joseph University and President of the Board of Directors of the Hôtel-Dieu de France. This day, dedicated to the sick, caregivers, and all who serve life, highlighted the spiritual and human dimension of the hospital’s mission.

The Mass drew upon the message of Pope Leo XIV: “The true remedy for the wounds of humanity is a way of life founded on fraternal love, which finds its source in the love of God.” This message served as a reminder that care is rooted in compassion and solidarity.

In his address, Fr. François Boëdec emphasized that love for one’s neighbor must remain at the center of caregiving. He recalled that caring for a patient goes beyond medical action and includes human, spiritual, and moral support. He encouraged everyone to continue their commitment to listening, respecting human dignity, and cultivating a spirit of service.

He added: “Dear brothers and sisters, I believe this Gospel invites us to take care of our gaze. What do we look at? Whom do we look at? How do we look? Weariness, fatigue, boredom, and worries can dull our gaze toward others. Some people may sometimes escape our notice; we no longer even see them. And in a certain way, they cease to exist. Our gaze is also so often absorbed by our phone screens that we spend more time captivated by images that are mostly of little significance, which pull us away from where we need to be—that is, here and now—where we must care, where we must look at the one who is present, waiting for our presence, hoping for a gaze that restores their dignity and shows that they are worthy of attention.”

The event, broadcast live on HDF Channel, provided the hospital’s patients with the opportunity to join in this time of prayer.