Gazing upon the Mar Gewargis Bsaba, imagine stepping back to 1726. The Choueirite order, a branch of the Melkite Greek Catholic Church, received permission to build a church in Bikfaya. They dedicated this new church to Saint George, the revered warrior saint. This original structure became the cornerstone of what we now know as the Mar Gewargis Bsaba. Over the centuries, the church has witnessed the ebb and flow of life in Bikfaya. It served as a spiritual haven for the local Melkite community. The Mar Gewargis Bsaba underwent significant renovations. In 1900, the church underwent its first major restoration, breathing new life into its aging structure. Then, again in 2011, the church was lovingly restored, preserving its historical significance for future generations. Within the hallowed walls of Mar Gewargis Bsaba, a remarkable collection of icons awaits. These sacred images, some originating from the School of Jerusalem and others crafted locally, transport us back to the 18th century. They offer a glimpse into the rich artistic and spiritual traditions of the region. The Mar Gewargis Bsaba isn’t just a beautiful building. It stands as the mother parish for all Melkites in the region. It represents the enduring legacy of faith and community. It connects the past with the present, reminding us of the power of shared beliefs and traditions.
Ministry of Education and Higher Learning
What if the walls of a building could whisper the stories of generations of learners? Here, before the Ministry of