An update from our GPS Mission Partners.

Since 17 October 2019 Lebanon’s streets have witnessed massive protests. They started in response to a set of regressive tax proposals, which came at a time when many people were fearful of an impending currency crisis and fed up with the sectarian political system that failed to provide even the most basic of services. The country suffers from long-running shortages in government-provided electricity and water. Four years ago, failure to resolve a waste collection crisis left mountains of rubbish in the streets of Beirut.

In the last three months, Lebanon has witnessed many roadblocks, burning tyres, businesses shutdown, petrol station strikes, and a rise in unemployment. Schools have been forced to close their doors for many days due to protests. Thankfully, there has not been a high death toll, but violence has been increasing in some isolated areas.

The Lebanese lira is pegged to the US dollar, but in recent months the black-market exchange rate has increased dramatically. Banks are only allowing people to take out the equivalent of roughly $100-200 per week. The price of basic goods in the supermarkets is increasing daily. Unemployment rates have spiked dramatically. The population of Lebanon, a small Middle Eastern country on the Mediterranean, has increased by over 40% since 2013 due to the influx of refugees mainly from Syria and Iraq, adding another massive strain on the Lebanese economy.

“...he would have to sell a kidney to be able to provide for his family.”

Church leaders are encountering many difficult situations with their members. Many people are unable to pay rent or utility bills as well as put food on the table. One couple shared that within 24 hours of the wife losing her job, her husband was told he will be laid off at the end of January. One pastor reported that someone in his church said he would have to sell a kidney to be able to provide for his family. There are cases of people committing suicide because of the pressure from ever-increasing debts. Church leaders are facing daily requests for financial assistance from desperate people in the community.

By the grace of God, RCB continues its work amongst the community. We continue to provide food, medication, education, prayer, and counselling for the most vulnerable. We are seeing more people come to know the Lord through this crisis. The darker it gets, the more powerful our witness becomes.

Please continue to pray for this country and for a new leadership that would rise to fight corruption.

Please pray for the leadership of RCB and for the pressure they endure as a result of uncertainty and high community demands.

Hikmat and Krista Kashouh

Ressurection Church Beirut