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.

Read also: Face à un monde en crise, l’USJ réaffirme sa mission d’humanité 

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Discours du R.P. François Boëdec s.j., Recteur de l’USJ
Address by Rev. Fr. François Boëdec, S.J., Rector of USJ
كلمة البروفسور فرانسوا بوادك رئيس جامعة القديس يوسف