Under the auspices and in the presence of His Beatitude the Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros al-Rahi, Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) organized the launching of "The Maronite Families Series" by late Nazem Nehmeh: a series of six volumes detailing the histories of 2241 prominent Maronite families in Lebanon. Patriarch Al-Rahi, praised this "great work" and these achievements: “The families contained within these pages are now better able to learn about their history, traditions, and their role in the Lebanese society, the Church, and the homeland, so that forgetfulness, loss and alienation do not overwhelm us.”
The President of NDU, Fr. Pierre Najem, said: "In these families' lists, we restore a history of holiness and pitfalls, of victories and obstacles, of the foundation of Greater Lebanon, born on the rock of the Maronites of Bkerki, and from divisions and wounds. This Order established a system of accountability and transparency, developed leading financial and economic systems, safeguarded the dignity of individuals, and preserved the rights of workers and community groups by establishing trade unions and associations. It was instrumental in creating a basic education system and higher education institutions. The Maronite Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the institutions of life devoted to it, has helped elevate Lebanon to a leading position in the region, drawing together with its partners a painting of citizenship and coexistence.”
Speaking on the progress NDU has made, Fr. Najem added: "Today we honor the wishes and desires of the Fathers of the Lebanese Synod of Louaize three centuries ago. We offer not only the finest sciences, but also a place for free citizens, proud of their heritage, who approach the unknown with open hearts. Through these pages on the roots and origins of the Maronite families, we ensure that Notre Dame University-Louaize remains a platform and a framework for history, a promoter of literacy, a mother of books, and a candle that lights a path to knowledge.”
Georges Mghames, Director, Publishing - Office of NDU Publications explained that the series forms the basis of a panoramic study of the history of Maronite families. Mghames went on to detail how the series helps form a concrete basis for Maronite heritage amid constantly shifting demographics, and mitigate the potential loss of understanding of their mission and the role they have played in the region’s history.