Moments of celebrations amid tribulations
Moments of Celebrations Amid Tribulations
Editorial
Throughout June, a whirlwind of political events unfolded in Lebanon and across the Middle East as conflict continued to rage. Yet despite these hardships, Thimar and our ministries were blessed with opportunities to celebrate a series of accomplishments. Though troubles persist in our region, these moments remind and show us how God continues to work.
Our SKILD Center turned 15 this year. On this Crystal Jubilee occasion, SKILD also received accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Such accreditation is both a recognition of the high-quality work done by our staff at SKILD and their pioneering achievements in making society, schools, and workplaces more welcoming and inclusive for individuals with special needs and learning difficulties. In this article, we provide more details about what this milestone means for SKILD, Lebanon, and our vision moving forward.
Thimar’s Beirut Baptist School (BBS) held graduation ceremonies for its students. After yet another challenging school year marked by yet another war, it was a joyous occasion for students. Among the graduates was Mahmoud Akoum, a student in BBS’ SMART Program. Click here to watch our recap video highlighting his story.
At the end of June, our publishing house, Dar Manhal al Hayat (DMAH), launched a new Youth Bible Curriculum in collaboration with our children and youth ministry Salt & Light. The launching event brought together Christians and church leaders from across denominations and churches throughout Lebanon. But the event did more than just introduce attendees to the curriculum: it trained them on how to use it and the importance of developing a Biblical formation among youth in the country. You can read more about the curriculum and the event here.
These events provide a moment to celebrate and remember all that God is doing in Lebanon and how He is using us in His work. As always, we are thankful to you, our friends and partners, who stand alongside and support us in all that we are doing. Until next time, we wish you all the best.
SKILD reaches new milestone as it receives accreditation from NEASC
SKILD Center has reached a historic milestone by becoming the first special needs center outside the United States to receive accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). This achievement recognizes 15 years of dedicated work promoting inclusion and supporting individuals with special needs and learning difficulties in Lebanon. Read more here.
It’s a Mosquito… It’s a Faulty AC Unit… It’s an MK Drone!
Followers of Christ are constantly called to resist becoming shaped by the fear, rage, hatred, and hopelessness surrounding them. We are called to remember that Christ rose from the dead. He sacrificed Himself for us, not by demanding others die for Him, but by giving Himself in love for the world. While we are called to carry our cross daily and follow Him, unlike what the leaders of this world do, Jesus gave Himself as the ransom. This changes everything, for His desire from us is mercy, not sacrifice. So, we each have to ask ourselves, in our own contexts, how can we be merciful and show the love of Christ in word and deed where we are?
Loulwa El Maalouf, Director of Partnerships and Organizational Development, Called to a New Season
After nine years of faithful service at ABTS, Loulwa El Maalouf, Director of Partnerships and Organizational Development, will be concluding her role at the end of August 2026 as she prepares to enter a new season of life and ministry.
Launching a New Youth Bible Curriculum for Today's World
Saturday, June 27 marked an important milestone for youth discipleship in Lebanon as Thimar-LSESD's Dar Manhal al Hayat (DMAH) and Salt & Light ministries officially launched a new Youth Bible Curriculum, the fruit of nearly five years of development by author and Executive Director of the Lebanese Evangelical Society Toni Haddad.
Picking flowers every morning for their teacher
Firas is a Syrian refugee living in Lebanon and the father of four children. Like many other refugees, he has been severely impacted by Lebanon’s economic crisis, struggling to get by and support his family. Amid financial difficulties and marital issues, a MERATH-supported education center has had a profound impact on him and his children.
Click here to read Firas’ story and how the education center has come alongside him and his children.
BBS SMART Program Class of 2026: Mahmoud Akoum
In June, Thimar's Beirut Baptist School (BBS) celebrated a beautiful milestone as Mahmoud Akoum graduated from the SMART program—an achievement that reflected his personal journey and the power of inclusive education. Mahmoud’s presence, resilience, and bright spirit reminds us all of what is possible when we provide every student with the support and community they need to thrive. We are incredibly proud of everything he has accomplished. Here is to Mahmoud, and to the unwavering commitment to fostering a school where every learner is celebrated and empowered.
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