Church leaders gather at the Seventh-day Adventist Church headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland, United States, to pray for the displaced persons in Lebanon amid the escalating Middle East conflict. [Photo: Lucas Cardino / AME (CC BY 4.0)]
October 16, 2024 | Silver Spring, Maryland, United States | Sam Neves, ANN
In a somber yet hopeful gathering, leaders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church at the General Conference (GC) hosted their annual meal and celebration for staff members and volunteers with ties to the Middle East. While celebration and stories of mission work have marked previous years, this year’s event took on a more urgent tone as leaders and attendees focused on praying for peace across the troubled region.
The Middle East, particularly Lebanon, is facing severe turmoil amid escalating tensions and violence. The conflict, which has seen airspace violations, shortages of essential supplies, and massive displacement of populations, has left many countries and communities grappling with profound uncertainty. Adventist leaders emphasized that their prayers and support are not aligned with any political side but are aimed at lifting all people, regardless of their faith, nationality, or belief system.
The Adventist Development and Relief Agency has been on the ground in Lebanon, providing vital support and humanitarian aid. [Photo: Lucas Cardino / AME (CC BY 4.0)]
“Even though I’ve remained in Beirut to be with our team during this crisis, I know that tonight’s meal is not just a celebration of the Middle East but a moment for us to stand together as people who believe in the power of prayer,” said Rick McEdward, president of the Middle East and North Africa Union of Seventh-day Adventists, in a video message. “God loves everyone, regardless of their religion or political affiliations. Our mission is to bring hope and light even in the darkest crises.”
Adventist Relief Efforts in Lebanon
As violence continues to displace thousands of people in Lebanon, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) has been on the ground since the first attack, providing vital support and humanitarian aid. Lebanon, already strained by economic hardships and political instability, has seen an influx of displaced individuals, heightening food shortages and placing immense pressure on the country’s social infrastructure.
ADRA’s teams have worked tirelessly to deliver food, clean water, and shelter to those affected. They are also collaborating with local organizations and international partners to ensure aid reaches the most vulnerable communities.
“From the very first day, our teams mobilized to provide essential supplies and support to the displaced,” ADRA president Michael Kruger said. “We know the importance of standing with communities, especially during such difficult times. It’s not just about delivering aid; it’s about being a presence of hope and support.”
Billy Biaggi, a GC general vice president, shares a deeply personal story about the impact of the conflict across Lebanon. [Photo: Lucas Cardino / AME (CC BY 4.0)]
Adventist Schools Offer Refuge
In addition to ADRA’s relief efforts, Adventist institutions throughout Lebanon and the broader Middle East have been involved in helping displaced people in various ways. The Adventist School in Mouseitbeh, Beirut, has become a key shelter for internally displaced persons (IDPs) due to the ongoing conflict. The school not only provides refuge but also offers emotional support programs for displaced children, helping them navigate the trauma and uncertainty of their situation.
Volunteers and church members have stepped in to cook meals, distribute clothing, and offer spiritual and emotional support to those in need. Middle East University (MEU), while not a shelter, has become a hub for prayer and community outreach, serving meals and providing practical assistance. Daily prayer sessions are held at MEU, with staff and students seeking divine intervention and protection for their nation and its people.
A Personal Matter
The evening also featured reflections from Billy Biaggi, a GC general vice president, who shared a deeply personal story about the impact of the ongoing violence. He recalled a moment when his son, who serves in Beirut, heard explosions nearby and feared for his family’s life. The experience served as a powerful reminder of the intensity and urgency of the crisis.
“As a father, I felt the fear that any parent feels for their child’s safety. But I also felt a deep sadness for all the families caught in the violence,” Biaggi said. “Tonight, we pray not only for the protection of our churches, schools, and families but also for all people living in this region. We pray for the displaced, the wounded, and for those working tirelessly to bring aid and hope.”
Church leaders and friends of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Middle East gather to pray for church members and the people of Lebanon. [Photo: Lucas Cardino / AME (CC BY 4.0)]
Biaggi called on the global Adventist community to unite in prayer and support for the Middle East, emphasizing that the church’s mission extends beyond spiritual guidance. “Our schools, hospitals, and aid agencies are there to serve, to provide shelter, and to offer a glimmer of hope during these times of distress,” he said.
Shining as a Light of Hope
As the event concluded, attendees joined in prayer for peace and protection for the region. They also expressed gratitude for ADRA’s work, the Adventist School in Mouseitbeh, Middle East University, and the countless volunteers who continue to make a difference on the ground.
“Despite the violence, despite the fear, we will continue to shine as a light of hope,” McEdward said. “Our mission is clear, and our resolve is strong. We stand with the people of the Middle East.”
The original version of this story was posted on ANN.
