Lebanon churches open their doors amid airstrikes

Churches in Lebanon have turn into sanctuaries for people displaced by Israeli airstrikes.

While the airstrikes are aimed toward militant group Hezbollah, Aid to the Church in Need’s project coordinator in Lebanon, Marielle Boutros, said that the results are far-reaching and “affecting everyone” but especially those living within the south – a component of the country that’s home to many Christians. 

Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) is partnering with local church organisations to assist the 1000’s who’ve been displaced for the reason that bombing began on Monday. 

“People at the moment are living in church halls, so they may need food, sanitary products, mattresses, blankets – and if it continues, we are going to need heating for winter, though in fact, we hope it’ll not last that long,” she said. 

Christians are among the many individuals who have lost their homes. Some have sought refuge in Beirut, Mount Lebanon, and northern regions. 

Beirut, which ACN said is a “stronghold for Hezbollah”, has also been targeted by the airstrikes. 

Boutros explained the impact: “Beirut is just not an enormous city, so if a component of Beirut is targeted, all Beirut will feel it, and all day people hear the sound of military aircraft or drones.”

She fears that the continuing conflict might speed up Christian migration from Lebanon and diminish the Christian presence within the region.

Schools that were already being supported by ACN in Lebanon have now closed on account of the violence and lessons are being taught online. 

Tragically, dozens of kids are among the many a whole bunch of casualties to this point. 

Boutros asked that Christians would pray for peace “to finally come to Lebanon and your entire region, and for a just end to the present conflict.”