Catholic university works to preserve Lebanon Christian past

Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK) is working to preserve the Christian heritage of Lebanon through conservation, digitization, research, and education. The university aims to protect the history of Christian communities facing threats from emigration, which endangers both their presence in the region and the transmission of their traditions.

Father Joseph Moukarzel, president of USEK, told EWTN News that preserving this heritage is central to the university's identity. Founded in 1950 by the Lebanese Maronite Order, USEK was the first university in Lebanon established by Lebanese citizens. The institution continues a tradition held by Maronite monasteries to protect manuscripts, liturgical traditions, and sacred art.

The university's library and archives contain thousands of items, including nearly 2,000 manuscripts, rare books, maps, photographs, and newspapers. These collections document the religious, cultural, and intellectual history of Lebanon and the Middle East.