On the Occasions of the 25th Jubilee of the Canonization of Saint Rafqa, and the Beatification of Patriarch Elias Howayek
A Spiritual Retreat for the MECC General Secretariat Team
From Jrebta to Kfifan and Aabrin
You can find some photos at the end of the text
The family of the General Secretariat of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) experienced a spiritual and cultural day in the Lebanese villages of Jrebta, Kfifan and Aabrin. The day was marked by a Spiritual Retreat organized by the MECC Theological and Ecumenical Department for the General Secretariat team, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, on the occasions of the 25th Jubilee of the Canonization of Saint Rafqa, and the Beatification of Patriarch Elias Howayek.
The Retreat began at Saint Joseph Monastery in Jrebta, at the Tomb of Saint Rafqa, where Sister Marta Bassil welcomed the participants and guided them on a tour of the Monastery, presenting an overview of its history, as well as its spiritual and Ecclesial mission.
Then, a spiritual reflection and discussion with Mother Dolly Chaaya, Superior General of the Lebanese Maronite Order of Nuns, was made under the title “A Path of Holiness in a Wounded East.” In her presentation, she reflected on the meanings of witness, hope, and holiness amidst the challenges that the East is facing today. Her talk was followed by a discussion and exchange of ideas with the participants.
Moreover, the General Secretariat team joined the Midday Prayer Service at the Tomb of Saint Rafqa with contemplation and reverence.
The MECC Secretary General Professor Michel Abs presented to Mother Dolly Chaya the Medal of the MECC 50th Year of Its Founding, as a token of affection, appreciation, and respect.
In addition, the Associate Secretaries General Father Dr. Nicolas Bustros and Mrs. Seta Hadeshian, presented a copy of the book “Christianity”, published by MECC.
Furthermore, the Coordinator of the Dialogue, Social Cohesion, and Human Dignity Program Professor Laure Abi Khalil, presented the MECC new publication in digital format, entitled: “The Middle East Council of Churches: Complete Record of 23 Symposiums, Round Tables, and Webinars of the Dialogue, Social Cohesion, and Human Dignity Rehabilitation Program”.
In her turn, Mother Dolly presented to each participant a copy of her book on Saint Rafqa.
After lunch at the Monastery, the participants continued their program with a visit to the Monastery of Saints Cyprian and Justina in Kfifan. They were welcomed by Father Estephan Farah, the Monastery’s Superior, who presented an overview about the Monastery’s history and mission and accompanied them on a tour that included the Tomb of Saint Nimatullah Al-Hardini and the Tomb of the Blessed Brother Estephan Nehme.
The Retreat concluded with a visit to the Monastery of the Holy Family in Aabrin, where the participants prayed in the Monastery’s Church and visited the Tomb and museum of the Blessed Patriarch Elias Howayek. They also listened to Sister Hala Tannous, who presented the history of the Monastery and the Religious Congregation, as well as the life of the Blessed Patriarch Elias Howayek and his national and Ecclesial role.
At the Tomb of the Blessed Howayek, the MECC Secretary General Professor Michel Abs, wrote a message in the visitors’ register, which said: “Holiness is Lebanon’s treasure until the end of time.”
It is worth mentioning that this Retreat constituted a distinctive spiritual day for the General Secretariat team, during which colleagues shared their spiritual experiences and aspirations, raising Prayers on the intention of every person, and for peace in the Middle East and the world.
