On Saturday, 2nd August 2009, there was a special service at Diman, the summer residence of Patriarch Mar Nasrallah Boutros Cardinal Sfeir, to celebrate the Papal proclamation that Patriarch Estephan Douaihy be made declared Venerable.

The proclamation by Pope Benedict XVI was made public on 3rd July 2008, and on the same day Patriarch Sfeir held a special Mass in honour of his predecessor's elevation, prior to his journey to Australia to attend Maronite 08. It must be humbling to hold the same office but yet do homage to one's predecessor.

Taking part in the service in addition to Patriarch Steir were: Bishop Samir Mazloum, Vicar General Patriarchal of Ehden Zgharta; Bishop Stephen Hector Youssef Douaihy , Bishop Emeritus of Saint Maron of Brooklyn; and Father Paul Azi, the appointed postulator of the cause for the canonization of the Patriarch.

Also present were members of the Patriarch Estephan Douaihy Foundation; the President of the Union of Zgharta Zawie Municipal Councils, General Joseph Maarrawi and a large contingent from the Parish of Ehden Zgharta.

The Parish of Ehden Zgharta has a special relationship with the holder of the office of Patriarch. The Patriarch is both head of the Maronite Church as well as the head of the three parishes comprising the Patriarchy, which the Parish of Ehden Zgharta is one. The Patriarch is therefore the Parish of Ehden Zgharta's spiritual head. In times of dispute or contention it is not unknown for parishioners to appeal direct to the Patriarch.

Some feel that the Parish of Ehden Zgharta, which excludes the greater part of Zgharta Zawie and which is part of the Diocese of Tripoli, should be a diocese in its own right; with other's preferring to remain part of the Patriarchy and have, as perceived, a more direct relationship with the incumbent Patriarch. While others feel that the historic borders of diocese and parish should be re-drawn and a new diocese be created, to include all of Zgharta Zawie, reflective both of administrative and political realities.

As our readership encompasses both the Diocese and Parish let us hear from you with your opinions - we do not publish opinions without permission: contact@zgharta.com