Led by His Healing Hand
The situation in Lebanon had continued to deteriorate as the war escalated. More areas were being targeted or threatened, and the danger increased with each day. In response, the ABTS guesthouse continues to provide meals and shelter for those who have been displaced, while expanding its efforts to meet rising needs and reduce the impact of this crisis.
People are living in fear, and many simply need a safe space to speak and be heard. At ABTS, we are committed to caring for the whole person, going beyond the mere transfer of information. This commitment continues to shape how we care for our guests as we live out the mission that we believe God has entrusted to us beyond education.
As part of this response, the Non-Formal Training (NFT) team is hosting two weekly sessions that provide safe and welcoming spaces for our guests to share, connect, and begin processing what they are going through.
These sessions bring together guests, from diverse backgrounds across Lebanon, helping them find hope in the midst of hardship. Beyond immediate needs, many are searching for a renewed purpose amid the chaos. While material possessions and plans may have been disrupted, the search for meaning continues.
Bassem Melki, Director of Peacemaking and Non-Formal Training, shared:
Though we come well prepared, we know that it is ultimately God who brings transformation. We are often surprised by how powerfully He is at work. People are opening up and expressing themselves deeply, and we are blessed to witness this. During war, people tend to hold more tightly to their trauma, so our expectations are low, but God continues to exceed them. We are seeing that far more people are on the journey for healing than we anticipated.
Bshara, one of the guests, reflected on his experience:
During the sessions with our guests
Bassem, Director of Peacemaking and Non-Formal Training
The NFT sessions truly encouraged me and confirmed that it is God who brought me to ABTS, not just for physical protection but also for spiritual growth. I began to better understand my thoughts and emotions and found the freedom to express them. My faith has grown stronger, and I’ve learned that under His protection, there is no room for fear. I believe many here are encountering Christ through these sessions, especially those from non-Christian backgrounds.
Due to the situation, participants are often exhausted, so the sessions are kept light and engaging. The focus is not on lecturing, but on creating a safe, interactive, and supportive environment. The team also takes time to meet with guests individually, listening to their stories and offering personal support. Some have even requested Bible studies.
Reem El Khoury, Peacemaking and Non-Formal Training Coordinator, led a session on confronting pain with the truth about Jesus and themselves. Participants were invited to write down their pain, the behaviors it leads to, and the ways they attempt to cope. This exercise encouraged reflection and helped them identify triggers and explore healthier responses.
Reem noted: “In times like these, what people need most is a chance to speak and be heard. Participants are expressing their emotions in a safe environment, and it’s encouraging to see them listening to one another and carrying each other’s burdens.”
Moreover, a session was held on how trauma physically affects the brains of adults and children, changing them over time. The meeting also included interactive games.
Another gathering was led by Abed El Kareem Zein El Dien, ABTS faculty member. Reflecting on the story of Jesus washing His disciples’ feet, he emphasized that, like Christ, we are called to serve others. He also highlighted the humility required to allow others to serve us, reminding participants that accepting help is part of the journey toward healing.
Rima, a guest who attended this session, shared:
This session helped me realize things I hadn’t seen before. I used to avoid sharing my problems because I didn’t want to burden others. But recently, when I was feeling overwhelmed because of the war, another guest stayed with me and listened. It was a beautiful experience. I understood what it means to let someone “wash my feet”. The sessions also reminded me that God has always been protecting me and that He is sovereign, even when I am not aware of it.
As these NFT meetings continue, we pray that God keeps using the team to care for our guests’ emotional well-being. God is truly at work, and we are grateful to witness His hand in all things and to be used by Him in serving others. We pray that each person will find a safe space to express themselves, experience healing and growth, and eventually return home transformed. Above all, we continue to pray for the end of the war and for lasting peace in Lebanon and the region.
Reem , Peacemaking and Non-Formal Training Coordinator
Abed, faculty member