Escalation of conflict across the Middle East and the Holy Land is having a direct impact on millions of vulnerable people, causing many to flee for safety.

In Iran, up to 3.2 million people have left their homes in urban areas to seek safety in rural locations. In Lebanon, more than one million people have been displaced from their homes, and these numbers continue to rise.

Airstrikes and the ongoing uncertainty of displacement are disrupting daily life across the region and limiting access to food, medicine, and safe shelter. Hundreds of people have lost their lives.

In Lebanon, Nazarene churches are responding to their neighbors’ needs by providing food and medical care. Beirut Church of the Nazarene operates a ministry called Mustard Seed Mini Market. The church has handed out 88 vouchers for families to shop in the market over the past weeks.

For students at Nazarene schools in Jordan and Lebanon, the conflict has meant a return to online learning, and staff remain connected with families in order to provide material and emotional support. Local leaders are actively assessing needs and responding as the situation continues to change. th

“In response to this growing humanitarian need, our five Nazarene churches and school in Lebanon are actively reaching out to displaced families within their communities, offering practical assistance, care, and spiritual support,” said Marlene Mshantaf, principal of the Nazarene Evangelical School in Beirut. “We are deeply grateful for our partners and donors who make this ministry possible. Your support allows us to continue serving vulnerable families and expanding our response as the needs continue to grow.”

“In times like these, I am always amazed by our churches in the Middle East and their courage, selflessness, and compassion towards those around them. Our leaders and volunteers are remarkable people,” reported Tim Bowen-Evans, NCM Coordinator for the Eurasia Region. “It is wonderful to be part of a global church that can join hands in providing essential humanitarian support through local churches. It is also incredibly important for the church around the world to remember Jesus’ call to be peacemakers and to use its voice to work for peace.”

How You Can Help

Pray

Pray for each person impacted by this escalation of conflict. Pray for protection for the millions who left their homes in search of a safe place to survive. Ask God to send comfort and strength to all who are weary, afraid, mourning the loss of loved ones, or in danger. Lift up children whose lives have been disrupted and pray that they would be protected and find stability. Pray for a lasting peace to come to the Middle East and the Holy Land. To share a prayer with churches in the area, visit ncm.org/pray.

Give

Churches and individuals around the world can provide support through the Middle East Crisis Response fund. Donations will be used for urgent needs like food, medical supplies, care for displaced families, educational support, and more.

To send 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.

—Nazarene Compassionate Ministries