On Wednesday, December 16th, 2015, in the presence of Fr. Louis Hazboun, Birzeit Parish Priest, BSCC members and staff lit the Christmas tree in a small ceremony held at the center, with strong attendance from Birzeit university students, civil societies and the local community.
At the beginning of the ceremony Fr. Hazboun blessed the celebration with Holy Mass and offered Holy Communion delivering a simple message of the meaning of Christmas. He also explained the symbols of the Christmas tree and the decorations, “We all came today to celebrate and welcome Jesus Christ. Not only us in this room, but also those who passed away. All the faithful are a unity; the living and the dead”.
Mr. Nicola Kawas, BSCC Supervisor, raised a prayer for the Palestinian martyrs and for all those who have fallen victim to terrorism around the world. He thanked the audience for sharing in the happy moments with the elders “… who are our greatest treasure…” and invited all to visit the center on a regular basis hoping that this Christmas season would spark the creation of a New Year’s resolution to visit the elders at BSCC and show them how much we love and care about them. At the end of his speech, Mr. Kawas invited us to not only light the Christmas tree physically but to light it in our hearts as well.
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Mrs. Jamileh Aranki, HCEF Representative in Birzeit, also shared a brief message on behalf of the elders of Birzeit, describing the overwhelming happiness and excitement that the elders felt when they saw people come together to share love during this blessed season. She also added, “BSCC, which was established in 2005, plays a major role in maintaining a humanitarian and moral values for the Birzeit senior citizens and raises their happiness and satisfaction. The center provides a healthy environment to express their feelings, and creativity. Through our programs and activities we also provide health and mental care”. She also expressed most sincere Christmas wishes to all and a Happy New year, full of love and good health.
Mrs. Ma’zouza Shahin, commented on the celebrations, adding that, for her, it was the best Christmas celebration she has experienced so far, and she truly felt the warmth of Christmas having her own family join her family at BSCC in love and joy.
