CHURCHES IN LEBANON ARE RESPONDING AFTER BEIRUT EXPLOSION Many of us have been shocked and saddened by the devastating explosion in the port area of Beirut on Tuesday. The country is already on its knees due to ongoing political unrest, economic crisis and the coronavirus pandemic. The impact of this explosion will certainly make the situation worse; a lot of supplies came through the harbour that was destroyed, and not having it will increase food insecurity for everyone. Churches in Lebanon are overwhelmed but responding to the vast need arising. While the work of Open Doors isn't directly affected by the blast, Lebanon is crucial for the work that our partners do in Syria. We are currently assessing what needs to be done to continue our work to support Syrian refugees. Please pray for God’s guidance. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that the Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Let’s lift the people of Lebanon to the Lord in prayer. PLEASE PRAY:
For everyone in Lebanon affected by the blast; in particular those who have been injured or who are grieving for loved ones who have died
For churches and Open Doors partners in the region and all those they serve; ask God to comfort, strengthen and provide everything they need
That God would pour out His healing and His Spirit on Lebanon.
INCREASING VIOLENCE IN SRI LANKA (#30) On Easter Sunday 2019, three Sri Lankan churches were bombed by Islamic extremists; 29 members of Zion Church were killed. These bombings came as a huge shock to the country, as persecution in Sri Lanka usually comes from radical Buddhist monks, who wield a lot of influence in the villages. Believers from Buddhist or Hindu backgrounds face harassment and discrimination from their families and communities, as conversion is considered a betrayal of their ethnicity. Open Doors strengthens persecuted believers in Sri Lanka with Christian literature and income-generating projects. Following the Easter Sunday attacks, Open Doors teams are also providing long-term trauma care and counselling to the affected families. What’s life like for Christians in Sri Lanka? A prayer for Sri Lanka Lord Jesus, thank You that, because of Your death and resurrection, death doesn’t have the final say. Comfort and strengthen our brothers and sisters who are grieving for loved ones. Protect them from further attacks, and may Your light shine through their witness as they continue to live their lives for Your glory. Amen. With many thanks for your prayers.
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