Hope unexpected : an account of the Lebanese Christians' encounter with Syrian refugees
Abstract
This research explores the place of the Church in Lebanon and its response to
the present Syrian refugee crisis. By means of interviews with a small number of
Christian leaders in Beirut, this study narrates a current reality from a positive
perspective and offers preliminary steps towards articulating a Christian response to
the present political turmoil. Although historically and physically divided, the
Lebanese churches are united in their readiness to respond with hospitality. In
attending to basic human needs, offering water, food and shelter to those who until
recently were considered enemies, Lebanese Christians have a powerful message of
forgiveness and healing. Prompted by both Arab and Christian traditions, the
Lebanese Christians are choosing hospitality and, in doing so, are finding unexpected
hope. This study argues that the Lebanese Church as a whole can be seen as a
positive contributor to the common good in both Lebanon and the Middle East, and as
an example to western churches as they engage with the current migration crisis in
Europe.
Type
Thesis, MPhil Master of Philosophy
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