In recent weeks and months, conflict in the Middle East has led to loss of life, destruction of homes and businesses, and widespread fear. The Church of the Nazarene is present in Lebanon, Israel, and other parts of the Middle East, with each church seeking to be a source of compassion and love for its neighbors. 

In Lebanon, mass evacuations and displacement due to conflict caused nearly 1.2 million people to leave their homes in search of safety. Many have sought refuge in Beirut, where four Nazarene churches, a Nazarene school, and a Nazarene clinic are located. Even now, as explosions are felt daily in the city, these churches and ministries are providing care for church members, neighbors, and those seeking refuge.

Lebanese churches have organized the distribution of hot food, food vouchers, mattresses, and bedding. The clinic is also providing vital medical care. After being unable to start the new academic year due to weeks of closure, the Nazarene school is preparing to open on a limited basis.

Staff members at the school have received training from the Red Cross to heighten their emergency preparedness skills. The 400 students will attend in shifts so they can continue learning and regain a sense of stability.

"Kids are home non-stop, exposed to the war news and updates," explained Marlene, principal of the Nazarene school. "At school, kids are able to socialize ... At school, they are distracted from the war news. At school, they are able to learn and focus."

Joining the student body this term are children from four families who fled escalated conflict to Beirut and were granted admittance to the school.

"We praise God for [reopening the school] despite all the risks and awful circumstances," said Marlene. "At home, [the students] lost hope completely. They felt down. Coming to school [makes] them feel life will go on."

Over the years, Lebanon has witnessed political instability, economic hardship, and conflict. The country's needs are vast, but the Church of the Nazarene in Lebanon is remaining faithful to the call to serve people in need with the love of Christ.

In Israel, many people, including members from five Nazarene churches, have sought safety in bomb shelters and are living with the constant tension of sirens and missile strikes in their neighborhoods. Churches in Israel continue to minister to community members who are suffering during this conflict and fear the continued escalation of war.

How You Can Help

Pray

Please pray for Nazarene churches, the school, and the clinic in Lebanon, Nazarene churches in Israel, and their ongoing works of compassion. Pray for a lasting peace and an end to violence. Pray for the protection and safety of children and teenagers as they return to school. Remember the most vulnerable, like the elderly, disabled, or those who could not escape areas of conflict. Pray for church leaders to have wisdom as they direct the compassionate response. To send a prayer or note of encouragement, visit ncm.org/pray.

Give

Churches and individuals around the world can provide support through the Middle East Crisis Fund. Donations will be used for immediate needs like food, medical care, and bedding, as well as long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.

To snd donations by mail:

In the United States, make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to:

Global Treasury Services

Church of the Nazarene

17001 Prairie Star Pkwy

Lenexa, KS 66220

Be sure to put 123595 in the memo area of your check.

In Canada, make checks payable to "Church of the Nazarene Canada" and send them to:

Church of the Nazarene Canada

3657 Ponytrail Drive, Mississauga, ON | L4X 1W5

Be sure to put 123595 in the memo area of your check.

For any other country, give through your local church or district, designating your gift to the Middle East Crisis Response Fund.