The Qnunbin Association for Mission and Heritage, along with the Antonine Sisters, organized the launch of the religious pilgrimage program under the patronage and presence of Maronite Patriarch Beshara Raï, with the participation of Minister of Tourism in the caretaker government Walid Nassar. Nassar expressed his happiness in attending the ceremony, stating, "All tourist facilities, from hotels to restaurants, are changing and evolving, but religious sites remain constant despite all circumstances and natural factors. Here we say that Lebanon's richness lies in religious tourism." He confirmed that "this year, the number of tourists will reach two million, 33% of them being foreigners and the majority being Lebanese." He noted the increase in guesthouses in Lebanon and that he founded a syndicate for them after the number exceeded 200.
He remarked, "The economic growth that reached 2% was a result of religious tourism. Therefore, we are working on developing the map of religious tourism in Lebanon." Nassar concluded by addressing the Patriarch, saying, "We all affirm your national role because the glory of Lebanon has been given to you." He then announced the decisions to include the sites of Saint Sarkis, the Patriarch Raï Path, Saint John Maroun, and Saint Stephen on the national and international tourism map.
Patriarch Raï thanked Minister Nassar for his care and attention, hoping for "national political relief that allows for the realization of all positive initiatives for the Lebanese." He stated, "The responsibility lies with the politicians to enhance tourism, which constitutes an important national economic resource, as well as an element of education and culture for our generations, equipping them to care for this heritage, a wealth that brings joy and develops resources."
