Churches, schools, and ADRA are working together to assist those who are suffering.
Published on: 10-29-2024
Since 2019, Lebanon has faced a series of profound crises, including political instability, protests, and an economic downturn that has led to a more than 90-percent devaluation of the local currency.
The pandemic, port explosion, and ongoing threats of violence have compounded these challenges. Many Lebanese people have lost their lives, their homes, and their way of life. The loss of ancient olive trees and fruit orchards, which have provided sustenance for generations, is particularly meaningful. These trees represent resilience and heritage in a region known for its olive oil. While we mourn the loss of life and livelihoods, we are reminded of our call to share Christ’s message of hope with all.
The Lebanese people have shown strength through this turmoil. The church has responded with dedication, working, for example, for 60 consecutive days after the 2020 port explosion to assist affected communities. This spirit of service continues as we navigate new challenges in Beirut.
The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) has been present since the first day of the conflict, reaching out to shelters and communities in need. They conduct assessments and provide support, working to improve conditions in shelters for displaced individuals.
Our Adventist Learning Center continues to assist, offering medical care, showers, clothing, and necessities. These efforts reflect our community’s commitment to service.
Middle East University, the University Church, and the Lebanese-Brazilian Adventist Community prepare meals twice daily for those in need. Volunteers gather in our cafeteria to cook and share food with the surrounding community, creating connections during difficult times.
Two of our schools have adapted to serve during this crisis. The Adventist School of Bechmizzine, inactive for years, now shelters 150 displaced individuals from the South. The Adventist School of Mouseitbeh has provided refuge for more than 300 people.
While facing hardships in our home country, we see God’s hand at work in other nations as communities come together in faith and service.
As we navigate these challenges, we recognize that future crises may come. As people of hope, we must reflect God’s love and work to prepare for the future we await. Our hope rests not in this world but in the promise of a city whose foundations are not built by human hands.
Our team remains safe and away from the conflict area, but we stay informed of developments. Please keep Lebanon in your prayers.
In another MENAUM country, just before the current crisis, we conducted training for workers being sent to the harvest. These programs encourage workers to bear witness to God and invite others to “taste and see that the Lord is good!” The General Conference Office of Adventist Mission supports this training through the Global Mission Centers. We are encouraged to see workers ready to serve in the harvest field.
Even as the world faces challenges of war, famine, disaster, and disease, our mission remains: to share salvation through Jesus with a world in need, in both word and action.
Let us shine for Christ and draw others into this hope, joining those who await the promised city.
Rick McEdward, Middle East and North Africa Union Mission
To bind together the Adventist people as we wait for Jesus to come back, by sharing news and information about the church plus articles on doctrine, spiritual growth and mission.
