Greetings in the name of our Lord! As you may know, Lebanon has been facing several challenges in recent years, including political instability, economic hardship, and social unrest. Despite these challenges, the people of Lebanon remain resilient and determined to build a better future for themselves and their communities. 

We, at CBM, are working hard to provide critical support and assistance to those in need, and your support has been instrumental in our efforts. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your continued generosity and support. Your contributions have helped us to provide essential aid and assistance to those who need it most and have made a real difference in the lives of countless individuals and families. Please know that your support is truly appreciated and that it is making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by the crisis here in Lebanon.

I traveled to Aleppo on March 10 to 11 alongside a team of five from Lebanon, to distribute food and hygiene packages to 150 families who had escaped their houses due to the earthquake. On our way to Aleppo, along the highway we could see the devastating effects of the war in Syria, shelled buildings leveled to the ground in all the villages we went by and through. Those that were still standing are abandoned with no sign of life. 

We arrived in Aleppo on Friday at noon and met with the representatives from the Christian Alliance Church whom we worked with to distribute packages and evaluate relief programs. We were briefed about the current situation and the families who were living in a school nearby. The earthquake had destroyed their homes, and they had no place to go. We started the distribution of food and hygiene packages on Saturday afternoon. The packages included essential items such as rice, beans, oil, soap, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products. We also helped prepare and serve breakfast for some 10 families who were staying in the church building as their homes are uninhabitable. We had a great fellowship time with them. They appreciated us spending this time with them to chat and provide encouragement. 

During our visit, we met with different pastors from the Christian Alliance Church, and the Armenian Orthodox Brotherhood to evaluate their relief programs. We discussed their current projects and gave them the funds we had raised. It was inspiring to see their dedication and commitment to helping the people in Aleppo. 

On Saturday evening, we attended the Christian Alliance Church worship meeting and shared a message of salvation. Three members of our team led worship, and I shared a message of hope from Matthew 8:1-4 (Jesus heals the leper). I talked about the love of God and how Jesus can set us free from our sins. We were overwhelmed by the response we received from the people. 

Our trip to Aleppo was a humbling experience. We witnessed firsthand the devastation caused by the earthquake and the impact it had on the families. However, we were also inspired by the resilience and strength of the people. We were glad to be able to help in some way, and we hope that our efforts will make a difference in their lives.

A quick update on our family to let you know how things have been going for us. First and foremost, we are happy to report that our two boys are doing well and enjoying school. We are grateful for the wonderful teachers and staff who are doing their best during these challenging times to make the learning experience for them enjoyable. 

As for my wife, she has been working with Youth for Christ as a human resources advisor, and she absolutely loves it. She finds great fulfillment in helping to support and develop the staff who work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of young people. It’s been a busy time for her, but she is happy to be making a positive impact through her work. 

As for myself, I have been keeping busy with work and family responsibilities, but I am grateful for the support of my loved ones and the opportunity to make a difference in my own small way. Overall, we are thankful for the many blessings in our lives, and we hope that you are all doing well too.

Please join us as we pray for: 

• Political stability in Lebanon
• The churches in Lebanon and Syria as they do their best to support those in need
• Peace in our region
• A peaceful transition to a civilian government in Sudan
• The upcoming projects for our partners in Egypt, Sudan, Morocco, and Lebanon

We are thankful for your unwavering support to the ministry of CBM in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region. Together we can make a difference in this part of the world by joining with the local church in its efforts to carry out the gospel and bring peace to the broken communities through word and deed.

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

*Names were changed for security reasons.