As it does every year, the Chaldean Diocese of Beirut held its Christmas choral celebration titled “The Child in the Manger” at the Cathedral of Archangel Raphael in Baabda – Brasilia on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 7:00 PM.
The choir, composed of students from Saint Thomas Chaldean Educational Center in Sad El-Bouchrieh, was conducted by Maestro Emad Rahhal, with Deacon Majed Shafou, the conductor of Saint Joseph Chaldean Choir, accompanying on instruments.
Under the patronage and in the presence of His Excellency Bishop Michel Kassarji, the celebration gathered members of the diocese, including Lebanese parishioners and Iraqi refugees, who attended with their children dressed in festive attire. Distinguished representatives from various churches also graced the event, including Archimandrite Arsanios Hanonik (Greek Orthodox), Fathers Joseph Raffoul and Maurice Wehbe (Greek Catholic), Father Antoine Chammas (Superior of the Basilian Aleppian Order), Father Jean Mehanna (Superior in the Maronite Mariamite Order), Archdeacon Emad Zaarour (Anglican Church in Lebanon), and Father Antranik Kokorian (Latin Church and Jesuit Order representative).
Both Bishop Michel Kassarji and Monsignor Raphael Traboulsi delivered welcoming addresses, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the celebration, thanking the attendees for their participation, and offering prayers for benefactors.
Following the recital, everyone proceeded to the Chaldean Youth Club beneath the cathedral for a delightful entertainment program, where gifts, sweets, and holiday candies were distributed to children. Giant mascots paraded to the sound of Christmas songs, followed by the joyous arrival of Santa Claus, bringing exuberant joy and laughter.
This festive gathering was organized in close collaboration with the Chaldean Charity Association, the organizing committee of Saint Joseph Parish, and the esteemed deacons.
العربية