You may have heard of recent events in Syria with the overthrow of the government of President Bashar al-Assad, after 13 years of civil war.

We have been in touch with our long-term partner in Syria, Pastor Samir Yacco from Damascus Church Aid, who tells us that the takeover by the Islamist rebel group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) was relatively peaceful and his church has been able to resume its worship meetings, Bible study, and Sunday school.

However, years of war, an earthquake, and economic sanctions have taken their toll in Syria. Infrastructure – including schools, roads and hospitals – has been destroyed, millions of people have fled their homes, the economy has shrunk, and food prices have soared.

Pastor Samir said that representatives from the new government are assuring faith leaders in Syria that things will be better under the new regime.

Damascus Church Aid has been distributing food and other essentials to neighbours through years of civil war in Syria.

But many in Syria and around the world are watching to see how things will unfold. Some are expressing concern about what kind of religious freedom will exist and whether Christians will be in danger, particularly those who have a Muslim background.

“We have to watch,” said Pastor Samir. “The Lord is still supervising this universe – we have no fear. At least there has been no killing; no kidnapping; no violation or breaching of civil liberty or freedom. Only the shortages of resources are the nightmare of Syrian people now.”

Please pray:

• Give thanks that Damascus Church Aid has faithfully cared for neighbours in need and proclaimed the gospel through years of trouble in Syria.
• For the nation of Syria to be able to re-build and replenish after years of civil war and economic sanctions.
• That displaced Syrians returning home will be able to rebuild homes and livelihoods.
• That Christians in Syria will be free to continue meeting publicly and following Jesus under the new regime.
• For the protection of Muslim background believers in Syria.
• For God to strengthen his church in Syria.

A prayer for Syria and Anglican Aid’s partner, Damascus Church Aid:

Our Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace,

We thank you that Anglican Aid’s partner, Damascus Church Aid, has continued to care for neighbours in need through years of war and economic sanctions in Syria, all the while sharing the hope they have in you.

Would you help the nation of Syria to restore schools, hospitals, and roads after years of civil war. As displaced Syrians return to their country, help them to rebuild their homes and livelihoods. We ask that the new government will bring stability to Syria so your people can live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. In this time of transition, please strengthen our Syrian Christian brothers and sisters with all power according to your glorious might so they have great endurance and patience.

As Syrians hope for a new era of peace, we pray that many will hear the good news of Jesus and turn in faith to him, the Prince of Peace, so they can know peace beyond all understanding and enjoy new life with him forever.

We pray in his name and for his glory.

Amen.