On Lebanese National Day, Monday, November 24, 2025, the students and staff members at the St. John of Damascus Institute of Theology – University of Balamand, accompanied by Dean Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Jack Khalil and Director of Student Life Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Damaskinos, embarked on a memorable excursion to explore various sites in Al-Shouf, Lebanon. The trip began with visits to several palaces in Deir al-Qamar, followed by a tour of the Al-Shouf Cedar Forest Reserve, and concluded with participation in the Vespers service for the Feast of Saint Catherine, presided over by His Eminence the Most Reverend Elias, Metropolitan of Beirut. The excursion proved to be an unforgettable experience for all participants.
