“Once I came here I was able to resolve my problems. All this from your strong faith. You spent a lot of effort on us. May God bless you.”
Help The Persecuted hosts retreats across the Middle East that provide spiritual and physical nourishment for families who have fled ISIS and now live in refugee camps. Biblical counseling is provided to help these families work through the trauma they have endured, and the retreats provide a safe place for healing and fellowship.
At recent Help The Persecuted retreats in Iraq, women shared stories of displacement and danger—but they also remembered the Lord’s mercy in the midst of their persecution. It was impossible to ignore the expressions of brokenness, weariness, fear and sadness. And yet, by the end of the weekend, these women had experienced healing and restoration. They sung songs of praise, received encouragement, and found hope to carry on.
During the final worship time at one retreat, each woman was draped with a shawl as a reminder of God’s protection and care over her. One woman said, “Women in Arabic society are neglected. They have no value. No one cares about them, their feelings, and emotions. But when a conference like this exists, with a goal to care for women, this changes women’s mindsets.”
Another said, “Once I shared my story at this retreat, I was comforted. I had many problems I could not handle. Once I came here I was able to resolve my problems. All this from your strong faith. You spent a lot of effort on us. May God bless you.”
This is why the ministry of Help The Persecuted exists: to lift up our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ in trying times. We seek to stand with them and meet their needs whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, demonstrating the love of Christ to those we serve.