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| Outreach Foundation Photos |
Long before the pandemic and the shutdowns of schools and businesses which followed, both Syria and Lebanon were experiencing a financial crisis: in Syria, as it slowly recovered from 8 years of war, and, in Lebanon, in the aftermath of months-long anti-government protests which collapsed the financial sector that had been the epicenter for business throughout the Middle East. Post-war inflation has had devastating effects in Syria with 83% living below the poverty line and 1/3 of the population experiencing food insecurity. In Lebanon, the failure of the local currency, relative to the dollar, means that someone who was earning $2000 a month now had the purchasing power of only $500.
The Synod, our trusted partner in the region, quickly launched an emergency outreach, for food, medicine, and hygiene supplies, to and through its 40 congregations in Syria and Lebanon, as well in a refugee camp. In a sacrificial show of unity and care, all 25 pastors donated ½ of a month's salary to the initiative, which, even now, is being carried out, in Lebanon, by Compassion Protestant Society - the diaconal “arm” of the Synod. The video shows Rev Hadi Ghantous, pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Minyara, Lebanon, and his team, delivering food vouchers and checking on shut-ins - both members of his congregation as well as others in need in his village.
Rev Joseph Kassab, General Secretary of the Synod, reflects upon these troubling times:
"The years to come will be painful and severe on people. However, we cling to our call amid difficulties. We have only one choice, namely, to stay… stand by our people, and use the challenge to be the Church of Christ. Yet, we know that we are not alone. God is walking with us, and our partner Churches are also."
"Dear partners in Christ, as we appeal to you, we remember the apostle Paul addressing the Macedonian Churches: “In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.”
Click here to learn more about Outreach’s COVID-10 Emergency Appeal
Thank you!
The Outreach Foundation
381 Riverside Drive, Suite 110
Franklin, TN 37064,
United States
(615) 778-8881
info@theoutreachfoundation.org
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