Smyrna is so thankful for the faithful perseverance of our Middle Eastern partner (who requests to remain unnamed for security reasons). God is using this man and his network of Arab Christians to bring Gospel-centered aid to marginalized people groups like Syrian refugees, Gypsies, the Druze, and the very poor...including children.
In Spring 2012, this brother visited the U.S. and spent time with Smyrna's leadership team, updating us on his ministry goals and challenges, meeting with area pastors, and asking for prayer for both the Christians and the Muslims in his region. In light of what God is accomplishing through the compassionate boldness of his ministry, we have decided, as in past years, to come alongside his "Backpacks for Arab Children" project. It is a proven outreach initiative that blesses impoverished children and helps local believers build relationships with needy families. We hope, if God has blessed you with some extra funds this summer, that you will consider using them to futher the effective outreach of His Church to children in the Islamic context.
(photo courtesy of Smyrna's Middle Eastern partner)