Spreading the Light
In the midst of challenging times, we are reminded of the resilience and strength that comes from standing together in faith and solidarity. Lebanon, our beloved country, continues to face immense hardships, with economic instability, political turmoil, the shadows of past wars, and the uncertainty of potential future conflicts leaving many in desperate need of hope and assistance.
How can you help us?
- Pray for our outreach
- Share this newsletter with someone
- Support our projects financially
Your unwavering support and dedication have been a source of strength and encouragement, enabling us to continue our mission of love and compassion. As we navigate these turbulent waters, we are reminded of the words of Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
A Testimony
Before diving into all the incredible developments at the centre, I want to share an inspiring testimony from one of our newer members:
Recently, a compassionate woman from our community, who works at the hospital, encountered a patient suffering from hemiplegia (paralysis of one side of her body). Having heard about the healing power of Jesus during her visits to our centre, she felt compelled to offer prayer and support to that patient. With great faith, she entered the patient's room and, invoking the name of Jesus, proclaimed she was healed.
Despite initial scepticism, the patient, who was also a mother, followed her instructions when she told her to move her body. To everyone's amazement, she began raising her hand and even her leg with newfound strength.
Witnessing this miraculous transformation, the patient erupted into tears of joy, while our church member quickly alerted the medical staff. The doctors, astounded by what they saw, confirmed the remarkable healing and declared it a true miracle!
Hallelujah! Let us rejoice and give thanks to the Lord for His wonderful works!
With this steadfast faith and determination, I am thrilled to share the latest updates from our various initiatives:
Spring of Life
In December Spring of Life (SOL) hosted a Christmas party for 500 Lebanese, Armenian and Syrian children at the Life Center and another party at our new centre in the Beqaa valley for around 100 Syrian children refugees. Our program consisted of dramas, songs, dancing, gift giving and most importantly a Christmas message preaching love. By the end of each event, many children had accepted the gift of Life: Jesus.
SOL Library
Fostering Imagination and Health through Tales and Treats
One of our more recent daily projects is the library or the storytelling project. This program serves 125 children divided into 3 groups from 3 to 6 pm, offering storytelling sessions, games and snacks. We aim to spark their imaginations and teach them how to read, write and pronounce letters correctly through stories. Our goal is to foster a love for learning by making it as fun and interactive as possible among the participants in our program.
SOL+ Empowering Children to Continue Their Education
Our SOL+ project keeps ensuring that refugee children have access to education in public and private schools and the opportunity to pursue their dreams. Your generosity enables us to cover school fees and support their educational journey, even in the midst of adversity.
Christian Education Institute
Investing in Future Leaders
We remain steadfast in our commitment to forming and equipping future leaders with the tools they need to make a difference in their communities.
Many programs take place throughout the week:
- We welcome new students with a “Massira” introductory session fostering a sense of belonging and purpose (“Massira” is a course similar to the alpha course for Arabs, mainly Syrians, of many different backgrounds) .
- Another group focuses on the study of the Gospel of John allowing deep spiritual exploration.
- For participants in smaller groups studying the gospel of John and “Massira” we provide focused discussions and learning opportunities.
We have two groups of 15 students each dedicated to “Al Hayat Fodla” which is a method used for learning to read and write through the Bible - As for second year discipleship students we provide 2 classes of 15 members with a discipleship class. This class embarks students on a journey of learning “discipleship evangelism”, a foundational course in spiritual growth.
We ensure that each session is led by qualified teachers and dedicated assistants and take attendance very seriously to provide continuous support and encouragement to all attendees.
Other Activities
Bekaa Valley: Empowering Communities
We stand in solidarity with the communities of the Bekaa Valley, providing support and assistance to those in need in our new centre. Your generosity enables us to empower children and youth by promoting literacy, and support small group teachers and ministers lead Bible studies (led by Gaby and Louis).
Feeding the Poor and Medical Emergency Support
Through our feeding program, distribution of food parcels, and medical emergency support, we continue to provide nourishment for the body and soul, serving as a guiding light to those facing crises.
Psychological and Social Support
One of our most recent projects is for psycho-social support. Alongside spiritual and physical support, we’re now offering mental health assistance. This initiative encourages open conversations and professional help for emotional well-being. It’s not only for refugees (kids and adults) and centre members, but also for our staff who need to de-stress and unload. We’re here to support everyone’s mental health journey, ensuring they feel heard and cared for.
Let us hold fast to the promise of Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
Thank you for your unwavering dedication and support. May God’s grace and peace be multiplied to you abundantly.
I am also glad to have Rianna joining our team to help me put this newsletter together and keep me in good communication with you.
Please pray for her and for our staff so we’re able to have breakthroughs in our lives and ministry.
Also feel free to share this letter within your trusted, closed circles of friends and family.
With heartfelt gratitude and blessings,
Said Dib
Life Center, Beirut