Many around the world saw photos following the aftermath of the explosion in Beirut, Lebanon on August 4. The blast (equivalent to 1.2 kilotons of TNT) was caused by ammonium nitrate stored in a warehouse along the major port for Lebanon. This impacts access to food and international trade heavily, putting greater pressure on a country already on the brink of economic collapse. More than 200 people are confirmed dead and 7,000 injured, with many still missing and 300,000 people have been displaced from their homes. Due to the pandemic, many citizens were out of work even before the city’s destruction, putting them in a desperate situation.
Assemblies of God World Missions (AGWM) acted immediately, using disaster relief funds to provide clean water and food for relief workers and those displaced by this crisis, serving meals for 150 families for three months. AGWM is also purchasing basic medical care and supplies to assist churches impacted by the blast. Long-time Speed the Light partner, Convoy of Hope, also has boots on the ground in Lebanon.
AGWM workers sent out from Minnesota are safe and have been instrumental in making these outreach projects happen. They find themselves in a unique place to minister to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of a hurting city. One of our workers shared these prayer points: “Please pray that God would redirect this nation. Please intercede for the country of Lebanon. The eyes of the world are on Beirut. This time could be a real turnaround for the country. Please continue to pray for the young people here. People love their county, but the instability makes them have little hope for building a future in this country.”
Despite the challenging times, praise reports are coming in. A short-term worker just transferred to Lebanon and a family recently moved to the region for full-time work, which has not happened for 16 years! One of the ministry centers was finally allowed to reopen, creating a much-needed space to meet with seekers and community groups.
Our Minnesota ministry family stretches across the globe advancing the Great Commission. Thank you for cheering on and supporting our friends overseas. Lives are being changed every day through your investment.
Photo by David Johansen, Beirut, LBN
