Catholic university works to preserve Lebanon’s Christian past

The Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK) is working to preserve Lebanon’s Christian heritage through conservation, digitization, research, and education. Father Joseph Moukarzel, president of USEK, told EWTN News that protecting this history is central to the university's identity.

The university was founded in 1950 by the Lebanese Maronite Order and is the first university in Lebanon established by Lebanese citizens. USEK continues the tradition of Maronite monasteries, which have historically protected manuscripts, sacred art, and liturgical traditions in the Middle East.

The university's efforts aim to safeguard the memory and traditions of Christian communities as emigration threatens their continued presence in Lebanon. The USEK library and archives currently hold thousands of rare books, maps, and manuscripts.