In 687 A.D. when the Maronites chose their own Patriarch, Saint John-Maron, the Emperor of Byzantium felt that his royal authority extended over the Church. He appointed Patriarchs and in many ways interfered in ecclesiastical matters. The Christians for their part got into the habit of turning to him to solve their problems. When the Maronites finally chose their own Patriarch, the authorities at Byzantium withheld their consent. While invading the region, the imperial army attacked the Maronites, and a battle was fought at Amioun, which resulted in a victory for the Maronites. The Patriarch established himself at Kfarhay, where he made the Episcopal palace his seat.

A number of Patriarchs resided at Kfarhay, among them are Saint John-Maron, Cyr, and Gabriel. They watched over their flock and ensured the purity of the Faith. The Anaphora (Eucharistic prayer) of St John- Maron is a brilliant testimony to the faith of the Maronites in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The lure of the riches of the world, which they had left behind, could not shake their firm belief. Nor could the assaults of their enemies disperse them. They loved their Creator and cherished his Holy Word.