For the past nine years, he has led St. Maron's during its most significant period of growth. We have many people who come from overseas because of the war in Lebanon. One half of the members are newcomers. The country has seen its share of bloodshed in recent years. Israel invaded Lebanon in 1978 and again in 1982 to drive out Palestinian guerrillas and it has occupied the border zone since 1985.
Clashes flare up occasionally.
Lebanon also suffered a devastating civil war from 1975 to 1990. The trim little church overflows on Sundays. So Maroun appealed to the congregation, which responded. The congregation picked up the rest. They are hard-working people.