Lebanon (MNN) — A holistic, loving, and strategic approach is helping Heart for Lebanon navigate the aftermath of war and bring lasting change to the people.

 

Near the biblical city of Sidon, Christians are building a new ministry center to serve local Lebanese in a predominantly Muslim area.

 

Camille Melki of Heart for Lebanon says, “For the first time in modern Lebanese history, a Christian community is buying property from Muslims to build a church on it!”

 

In an area largely populated by Shia and Sunni Muslims, this development became possible only after nearly 20 years of consistent presence, practical help, and genuine love. Over time, the ministry earned the community’s trust.

 

“How did we get to purchase a property from a Muslim community? Right now, my only answer is by God’s grace,” adds Melki.

 

The Hope Ministry Center stands in southern Lebanon, a region home to many refugees and displaced families. Despite the ceasefire, drones still buzz overhead as Hezbollah activity continues. Years of conflict with Israel, coupled with the nation’s economic collapse, have left parents unable to educate their children and businesses struggling to survive.

 

“A lot of the problems that this country has been experiencing are because it is spiritually poor, where the Gospel is not reaching the masses,” Melki explains.

 

But change is happening!

 

Alongside biblical teaching, the Hope Ministry Center takes a holistic approach — offering education, healthcare, and discipleship training.

 

The Hope Ministry Center will provide education for children and adults, along with a sanctuary for Arabic- and Kurdish-speaking congregations, a leadership training hub, a safe playground, and medical clinics meeting physical needs while pointing people to spiritual hope.

 

Each weekend, over eight hundred people already join the ministry’s spiritual programs. “This new Ministry Center,” says Melki, “will add at least 30 to 40 percent capacity, and so we can imagine how many more people will be blessed.”

 

It’s a season of transformation, as the Gospel brings hope to weary hearts across Lebanon. Pray for Heart for Lebanon as they continue to demonstrate Christ’s love in practical ways. Ask God to make local churches grow and multiply with joy, despite hardship.

 

“We’re so grateful for what God has done in our midst, and by faith we look for amazing things this center will accomplish, all by God’s goodness and provision,” Melki says.

 

Source: https://www.mnnonline.org/news/grace-at-work-how-muslims-welcomed-a-christian-center-in-lebanon/