Our Digital Mission Field
June 17, 2025
Syria is home to a group of devoted Christian leaders who have dedicated their lives to spreading the Gospel, building communities, and serving amidst adversity. Despite the challenges posed by political turmoil, economic hardships, and religious opposition, these individuals continue to inspire change and hope. Here, we highlight the stories of four such ChangeMakers: Elias N., Maher S., Mazen H., and Naameh S.
Elias N.
Elias came to know the Lord over 30 years ago through visits from Christian brothers in Homs, Syria. God led him to Lebanon, where he studied at the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary before returning to Syria to begin his ministry in Kfaram. Even during his military service, he remained committed to his faith, using his weekly leave to attend Qusur Baptist Church in Damascus.
After his discharge, Elias dedicated himself to ministry in Kfaram. As the congregation grew, he opened his home for worship, and eventually, a rented hall became the church’s new gathering place. Over the past ten years, the church has flourished, offering youth ministry, Sunday school, women’s ministry, preaching, and discipleship classes.
Despite facing security investigations, slander, and opposition, Elias remains steadfast. His vision for the coming year includes increasing visits to counter false rumors, completing the purchase of their church building, and launching new ministries, pending sufficient funding.
Prayer Requests:
- Strength for his wife, their church, and the village of Kfaram.
- Courage for those hesitant to believe due to fear.
- Provision for food and medical supplies.
Maher S.
Maher’s interest in Christ began in 2009 during a conversation with a pastor on public transportation in Homs. After engaging in Bible studies, he accepted Jesus as his Savior and soon took on leadership roles in his church, leading youth ministries and worship.
In 2014, Maher committed to full-time ministry, serving in home fellowships and worship gatherings. His efforts led to the establishment of a Baptist church in Bab Sebaa, which is now recognized under the Baptist Union of Syria.
Maher’s church faces internal conflicts due to diverse backgrounds and spiritual gifts among members. However, with a strong team supporting him, he remains focused on church unity and effective ministry. His vision includes strengthening home-based fellowship groups, expanding outreach in Homs, and training new leaders.
Prayer Requests:
- Unity and purity in the church.
- Strength to resist individuals seeking to disrupt ministry.
- Successful transition to an independent Baptist church.
Mazen H.
Born into a religious but nominally Christian family, Mazen began following Christ at the age of 18 after hearing the Gospel. Since 2018, he has led the Al-Fadi Evangelical Baptist Church in Tartous, serving in an urban expansion area where no prior church existed.
The church started in a small apartment with a maximum capacity of 45 people. Despite space limitations, it has grown significantly, launching ministries for women, families, Bible study, and evangelism.
One of the most powerful testimonies from the church is that of Natalie M., a woman who returned to Syria after being exploited in the U.S. Through discipleship and prayer, she overcame suicidal thoughts and now serves in Sunday school while also helping exploited women both legally and spiritually.
The church faces obstacles such as fear of change, ongoing emigration, and financial constraints. Their goals include expanding the church space, acquiring a van for transportation, and enhancing their ministry efforts.
Prayer Requests:
- Strength for new believers facing persecution.
- Resources for expanding church facilities.
- Training opportunities for church workers.
Naameh S.
Naameh accepted Christ in while studying civil engineering. His ministry in Al-Mazraa is a combination of church-based services and outreach in remote areas.
One of Naameh’s most inspiring encounters was with Brother Ibrahim Ghraibi, a man initially resistant to the Gospel. After several meetings and much prayer, Ibrahim had a life-changing moment where he broke down in tears and accepted Christ.
His ministry faces difficulties such as opposition from religious leaders, security concerns, transportation hurdles, and economic struggles. This year, Naameh aims to increase home visitations, strengthen discipleship, and establish a theological training class.
Prayer Requests:
- Continued peace and protection in Syria.
- Funding for a ministry van and alternative power sources.
- Completion of the church building’s ground floor.
Faith in Action
Despite trials, these ChangeMakers continue to serve faithfully, bringing hope to their communities. Their stories are testimonies of God’s work in Syria and serve as a reminder of the power of perseverance in ministry.
How You Can Help:
- Pray for these leaders and their ministries.
- Support their financial and logistical needs.
Share their stories to encourage others in faith.