Episode Details

In this episode of the Journey of Hope Podcast, host Elio Constantine welcomes Heart for Lebanon CEO Camille Melki and Managing Director May-Lee Melki Constantine for a powerful ministry update from Lebanon. As Heart for Lebanon prepares to celebrate 20 years of ministry this October and the 10th anniversary of Hope Evangelical Church, Camille shares encouraging news from the field, the ongoing challenges facing Lebanon, and the remarkable ways God continues to restore hope in the midst of conflict.

Camille provides an update on the humanitarian and political situation following months of war, highlighting the devastation many communities continue to face while pointing to encouraging diplomatic developments that offer a glimpse of hope for lasting stability. More importantly, he shares how these difficult circumstances are creating unprecedented opportunities for the Gospel as families search for lasting hope in Christ.

Listeners will hear firsthand how Heart for Lebanon's Hope Ministry Centers are transforming lives through education, worship, discipleship, and compassionate outreach. From children eagerly enrolling in educational programs to Kurdish believers worshipping Jesus in their own language for the first time, Camille reminds us that God continues to change lives and transform communities every day.

May-Lee then shares how Heart for Lebanon's discipleship ministry has grown over the past two decades—from leading Bible studies during the ministry's early years to developing comprehensive discipleship pathways that are equipping believers across Lebanon. She explains how more than 50 Bible study groups, tailored discipleship classes in three languages, and intentional relational ministry are raising up mature followers of Christ and planting churches among communities from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds.

The episode concludes with the inspiring story of Shadia, a Syrian widow whose journey began with receiving a food parcel but ultimately led to a relationship with Jesus Christ, deep discipleship, healing, and a life now invested in leading others to Him. Her testimony beautifully illustrates Heart for Lebanon's commitment to holistic ministry that meets physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.

Show Notes
Ministry Update from Lebanon

• An update on the humanitarian impact of the recent conflict.
• Encouraging progress toward peace through ongoing negotiations.
• The physical and spiritual needs facing families across Lebanon.
• Why this moment presents unique opportunities for Gospel ministry.

Hope Restored Every Day

• Children beginning a new school year with hope.
• Kurdish believers worshipping Christ in their heart language.
• H.O.P.E. Ministry Centers serving as places of worship, discipleship, and transformation.
• Celebrating lives changed through Christ.

Twenty Years of Faithfulness

• Celebrating Heart for Lebanon's 20th anniversary.
• Marking ten years of H.O.P.E. Evangelical Church.
• Reflecting on God's faithfulness through two decades of ministry.
• Honoring the supporters whose prayers and generosity have made the ministry possible.

Discipleship That Lasts

• More than 50 Bible study groups meeting across Lebanon.
• Nine- to ten-month discipleship programs offered in multiple languages.
• Five churches planted through long-term discipleship.
• Building mature believers who disciple others.

Relationships That Change Lives

• Ministry built through home visits and consistent relationships.
• Walking alongside families in their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
• The story of Shadia—from receiving humanitarian aid to becoming a disciple of Christ and serving others.

How You Can Pray

• Pray for lasting peace and stability in Lebanon.