Episodes

  • Hope in Darkness: Lebanon's Power Crisis and Spiritual Renewal

    Hope in Darkness: Lebanon's Power Crisis and Spiritual Renewal
    Sep 21 2024
    In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine is joined by Camille Melki, CEO and co-founder of Heart for Lebanon, to discuss the organization’s response to Lebanon’s multifaceted crises.

    From economic collapse to power shortages, the conversation sheds light on how Heart for Lebanon continues to bring hope to the most vulnerable. Camille elaborates on the country's recent power crisis, explaining how a lack of elected officials and deep-rooted corruption led to a complete shutdown of government-provided electricity. Despite this, Heart for Lebanon remains a beacon of light, thanks to foresighted management and the generosity of its investors. The organization’s solar systems and generators ensure uninterrupted Ministry operations, allowing them to continue serving their community.

    The episode also introduces Heart for Lebanon's new and exciting Ministry opportunity: the Farm to Table Program. Camille shares how a generous donation of land adjacent to their Ministry Center in the Bekaa Valley has been transformed into an agricultural haven. The land now produces seasonal vegetables and fruits, providing both job opportunities and fresh produce to those in need. This initiative not only meets physical needs but also restores dignity and purpose to the community.

    Heart for Lebanon’s commitment to being the light in the midst of darkness is evident in their every action. From providing essential services to offering spiritual care through discipleship programs and Bible studies, they embody Christ’s call to be the light of the world.

    Join us in this episode as we delve into the challenges and triumphs of Heart for Lebanon, and learn how you can be a part of this transformative journey.

    Don’t forget to rate, review, and share this podcast with your family and friends. For more information or to join our prayer team, visit heartforlebanon.org/prayer. If you have any feedback or questions, feel free to email us at podcast@heartforlebanon.org.
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    23 mins
  • Hope in Action: Stories of Missional Leadership

    Hope in Action: Stories of Missional Leadership
    Aug 31 2024
    In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine sits down with Joseph and Tony from Heart for Lebanon's Team to discuss the transformative Missional Leadership Program. This initiative is designed to equip local Ministry leaders to serve their communities in Lebanon, Syria, and beyond.

    Joseph shares the origins of the Missional Leadership Program, which began in response to the influx of Syrian refugees during the Arab Spring and the Syrian war. He explains how the Program aims to move people from despair to hope through Jesus Christ, focusing on both their physical and spiritual needs. The Program is now in its third year and has expanded to include both Syrian refugees and Lebanese participants.

    This episode highlights the program's three pillars: spiritual foundation, character formation, and skill development. Joseph provides an in-depth look at the curriculum, which includes lessons on biblical knowledge, character traits, and practical skills. The goal is to prepare participants to become future leaders who can positively influence their communities.

    We also hear personal testimonies from Program participants like Ahmad, Jacob, and Jomaa, who share how the Missional Leadership Program has impacted their lives and strengthened their faith. Tony, a trainer in the Program, shares inspiring stories of transformation, including those of Mahmoud, a Kurdish man from Syria, and Joseph, a Lebanese Maronite.

    Join us as we explore the profound impact of the Missional Leadership Program and the incredible stories of change and discipleship happening in Lebanon.

    Don't forget to rate, review, and share this podcast with your family and friends. For more information or to join our prayer team, visit heartforlebanon.org/prayer. If you have any feedback or questions, feel free to email us at podcast@heartforlebanon.org. Until next time, God is with you.
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    27 mins
  • Hope & Transformation: A Summer in Lebanon

    Hope & Transformation: A Summer in Lebanon
    Aug 17 2024
    In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine welcomes Tom Atima, co-founder of Heart for Lebanon, to discuss the impactful Summer of Hope Program. This initiative has provided over 2,500 children in Lebanon with a summer filled with joy, education, and the love of Christ amidst the country's ongoing challenges.

    Tom shares the origins and strategy behind Summer of Hope, emphasizing the importance of giving children positive activities during the summer months. He highlights the transformative power of Hope, contrasting it with mere optimism, and explains how the Program instills virtues, character traits, and a Christ-like mindset in the children.

    We hear the touching story of Shahed, an eleven-year-old girl from Syria, whose life was changed through the Hope on Wheels Program. Shahed's journey from being a bully to a compassionate helper exemplifies the profound impact of the Summer of Hope.

    Tom and Elio also discuss the broader Children-at-Risk initiative, which runs year-round, and the future plans to enroll many of these children in the H.O.P.E. (Helping Overcome Poverty through Education) Program. This Program provides a holistic education, including academic classes, character development, and discipleship, preparing children to become positive influencers in their communities.

    To check out a recap video of this Summer of Hope, click here.

    Feel free to email us at podcast@heartforlebanon.org with any comments or suggestions, and don't forget to share this podcast to help us reach 50 more subscribers by the end of the year!
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    19 mins
  • Summer of Hope Update

    Summer of Hope Update
    Aug 3 2024
    In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine sits down with Joanna, leader of the Children-at-Risk initiative at Heart for Lebanon, to discuss the transformative power of hope for children in Lebanon this summer. Despite Lebanon's ongoing economic, political, and social crises, Heart for Lebanon is providing a safe and joyous environment for over 2,500 children.

    Joanna shares touching stories of resilience, faith, and the profound impact of their activities, including summer camps filled with fun, psychosocial support, and spiritual growth. There is also an update from Freddy, a teammember in the field in southern Lebanon who is working with these kids daily. Tune in to hear how the difference it is making to the children of Lebanon!

    If you want an update on the current events in Lebanon and the Middle East, join our Co-Founders Tom and Camille for a conversation this Monday, August 5, at 11:30am (eastern time). Click here to register for the call.
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    19 mins
  • Experiencing & Extending Christ's Love

    Experiencing & Extending Christ's Love
    Jul 20 2024
    In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine takes us to the Bekaa Valley to speak with Bashir, the pastor of the Hope Evangelical Church and field manager for Heart for Lebanon's operations in the region. Together, they delve into the profound impact of experiencing and sharing the love of Christ.

    Bashir shares his personal testimony of coming to Christ at the age of 17 and how his journey has led him to serve both inside and outside the church walls. He emphasizes that knowing Christ compels us to make Him known to others, and he illustrates this through Heart for Lebanon's multifaceted outreach programs.

    We hear the poignant story of Alya, a Syrian refugee who found hope and transformation through the love and support of Heart for Lebanon. Despite facing immense personal tragedy and responsibility, Alya's encounter with the church led her to a newfound sense of love and compassion for her family.

    Bashir also recounts a touching story of a Syrian Christian family in Zahle who felt isolated until Heart for Lebanon visited them. Their story underscores the importance of building relationships and showing love through simple acts of kindness and presence.

    Please join our prayer team at heartforlebanon.org/prayer. Feel free to email us at podcast@heartforlebanon.org.
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    17 mins
  • Hope Evangelical Church Transforming Lives

    Hope Evangelical Church Transforming Lives
    Jul 6 2024
    Today, we delve into the history and significance of Hope Evangelical Church, exploring how holistic ministry has been vital in planting churches amidst Lebanon's turbulent past and present.

    Our guest, Camille Melki, Heart for Lebanon's founding CEO, shares the remarkable journey of how the Hope Evangelical Church in Ghaziel and the Bekaa Valley came to exist. Initially, planting churches was not on Heart for Lebanon's radar. However, the need to provide a safe place for worship and community for those who were suffering became evident. Discover how these churches have become beacons of hope, bringing together people who were once conditioned to view each other as enemies.

    Camille discusses the challenges the church faces today and the transformative power of creating a community where everyone is welcomed and loved, regardless of their background. Learn how the church is playing a pivotal role in education, healthcare, and social welfare, restoring dignity and offering tangible support to those in need.

    Join us as we explore the profound impact of the Hope Evangelical Church, where real reconciliation and peace-building are taking place, and hear inspiring stories of individuals finding hope and love in Christ.
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    20 mins
  • A Dive Into Our Prayer Ministry

    A Dive Into Our Prayer Ministry
    Jun 15 2024
    In this episode we delve into the profound influence of prayer in the midst of Lebanon's ongoing trials. Host Elio Constantine, alongside John Crump from Heart for Lebanon's international office, unpacks the transformative and sustaining power of prayer for individuals and nations alike. We are reminded of the pivotal role of prayer partners in supporting Heart for Lebanon's mission, emphasizing that their intercessions are as crucial as financial support. Reflecting on the promises of God regarding prayer, we look at Matthew 7:7 and John 14:13-14, which assure us of the Lord's attentive response to our earnest petitions.

    John Crump, our Ministry and Church Catalyst, engages in profound dialogue with Elio, exploring whether prayer changes God's mind or serves to transform us. John draws upon biblical narratives, including the experiences of Moses, Esther, Mordecai, and the early church, to illustrate how prayer has historically been a catalyst for confronting and overcoming systems of injustice. Elio shares a personal testimony of prayer's miraculous impact during Lebanon's economic crisis, a story of last-minute hope that reinforces his faith in God's provision.

    We also hear from Adham, a young man from Aleppo, whose vision impairment led him to Heart for Lebanon's Bible study and a newfound relationship with God through prayer and support. As the episode concludes, John emphasizes that prayer is the lifeblood of Heart for Lebanon, a foundation more vital than any resource. He invites listeners to join the community of prayer partners, a commitment that undergirds the ministry's work and brings hope to the marginalized.

    If you have questions, please reach out to us at podcast@heartforlebanon.org. If you have a prayer request you'd like to share, please send it to prayer@heartforlebanon.org.
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    22 mins
  • Summer of Hope Kickoff

    Summer of Hope Kickoff
    Jun 1 2024
    We dive into the transformative power of summer camps as a beacon of light for the children of Lebanon. Host Elio Constantine welcomes us into a discussion about the Summer of Hope initiative, a program designed to bring joy and the love of Christ to Syrian, Kurdish, and Lebanese children amidst the nation's multifaceted crises.

    Lebanon, a country grappling with an economic downturn considered one of the worst in recent history, hosts an overwhelming number of Syrian refugee children—estimated between 600,000 to 650,000. In these trying times, the children bear the brunt of the nation's hardships, often facing a future dimmed by the shadows of war, displacement, and poverty. Elio is joined by Joanna and Freddy from Heart for Lebanon's Children-at-Risk team, who share their passion and plans for the upcoming summer camps.

    The camps aim to nurture steadfast faith, foster community, and inspire hope in the face of adversity. Freddy shares a touching story from the field, including the tale of Faiz, a mute boy whose life was transformed by the Hope on Wheels program. Through the simple yet profound acts of kindness and the sharing of Bible stories, Faiz found a sense of belonging and joy that had previously eluded him.

    Join us as we explore the importance of nurturing the young hearts and minds of Lebanon, and learn how you can be a part of their journey by visiting heartforlebanon.org. Your prayers and support can help sow seeds of hope and strength in the lives of these precious children. For more information or to join the prayer community, visit heartforlebanon.org/prayer. Send your questions or comments to podcast@heartforlebanon.org, and be a part of the story that changes lives through faith, love, and the unyielding hope of Christ.
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    19 mins