Lebanon (MNN) — Increasing conflict, intense bombardment, and insecurity are forcing a growing number of medical centers to shut down in Lebanon. Nearly half of the 207 primary healthcare centers in conflict zones are closed.
Co-founder Camille Melki says Heart for Lebanon began its medical clinic in the Bekaa Valley 18 years ago.
“Heart for Lebanon started doing ministry in October 2006 as a response to the Hezbollah and Israeli war that summer. Hosting medical teams started a few months after, realizing that medical services are scarce, especially during conflicts,” Melki explains.
“We continue to serve, from that day till now, locally displaced families and Syrian and Iraqi refugees.”
In 2019, the ministry expanded its clinic to meet ever-rising needs, building a permanent location and hiring residential staff. “We are 20 miles from the border with Syria,” Melki says.
“The Bekaa Valley is the largest host of refugees who have crossed from Syria to Lebanon, and our center serves thousands of individuals on a weekly basis.”
Every interaction is a Gospel opportunity. “When someone goes to a doctor, they expect the doctor to know what they’re talking about and to prescribe the best medicine,” Melki says.
“That’s very true, but in our cases, the patients [also] feel they’re important in the eyes of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Are you a medical professional? Volunteer by connecting with Heart for Lebanon on Facebook. Plus, “we would urge listeners to continue to pray for open doors to share the love of Jesus Christ,” Melki requests.
“Also, we urge you to pray for the resources needed because maintaining a clinic is not a small task.”
Header image courtesy of Heart for Lebanon.
