Praying for Lebanon
- Lebanon reels from decade after decade of tragic communal wars, foreign interventions, and internal crises. Wars and conflicts have displaced over 80% of the population. Massive grassroots protests in 2019-2021 revealed Lebanon’s frustration with the failure of successive governments to bring solutions to ongoing issues of economic stagnation, unemployment, and corruption. The impact of Covid, the massive explosion in Beirut in 2020, and the ongoing economic and political crisis intensify Lebanon's woes further. Meanwhile, a around two million refugees seek shelter in Lebanon – from Syria, Palestine, Iraq, and beyond. These refugees are often used as scapegoats for Lebanon's many woes. But growing numbers of them are also encountering Jesus for the first time. Pray for this biblical land to know the loving mercy and rich blessings of our loving Father.
- The entire nation has been deeply traumatized, especially Christians. Many despair of any future in Lebanon and have emigrated en masse for economic and security reasons. The Christian percentage has dropped from 62% in 1970 to less than 30% today. Pray that many may come to personal faith in and deep commitment to the Lord Jesus. Though most Christians would leave if they had the chance, pray for many to choose to stay and remain salt and light in Lebanon.
- The wide variety of Orthodox and Catholic Churches have a long history of struggling to survive. In the midst of traditionalism, deadness and politicization, there are significant renewal movements, notably in the Maronite and Eastern Orthodox Churches. Church attendance remains high. The Middle East Council of Churches draws together mainline groups. Pray for new life to infuse these ancient communities and for key religious leaders to personally experience new life.
- The Protestant Church has struggled to find acceptance, and the many small denominations communicate a message of fragmentation and divisiveness. Conversions have barely replaced losses through emigration. Pray for the ministry of Protestant groups - with a number of new converts from non-Christian backgrounds - that they might grow in number and missions vision. Pray for new growth among mainline Protestants as well. Pray for further fellowship and cooperation to develop among evangelicals. Churches are increasingly working together in responding to Lebanon's many crises. The Supreme Council represents Protestants in the national framework.