On May 12, 2026, in a tradition that has been upheld for many years, the graduating students of the Armenian Catholic Mesrobian High School carried out the Darb El Sama pilgrimage, ascending to the shrine of Harissa starting from the seaside of Alma (Jounieh). Led by the school principal, Mr. Grégoire Kaloust, and accompanied by the general supervisor, Mr. Garo Tarayan, the students walked approximately 3 kilometers on foot. At the seven stations along the route, they read intentions, prayed the Rosary, and at the shrine of Harissa, asked for the protection and blessing of the Blessed Virgin Mary for themselves and their loved ones.

The group then headed to the Monastery of Bzommar, where they attended the Holy Mass celebrated by Mesrobian’s chaplain, Father Sahag Keshishian. Afterwards, the monastery’s vice-superior, Father Nareg Vartabed Louisian, presented the history of the Bzommar Monastery to the students. The students also visited the Saint Ignatius Maloyan Library and other sections of the monastery. The day concluded with a shared lunch, leaving emotional and unforgettable memories in everyone’s hearts and minds.

See the photos here: Darb el Sama Pilgrimage
Video: Darb el Sama Pilgrimage Video