Established in 1964, AlKiama Church – Resurrection Church has a rich history. It has become a beacon of hope and resilience in Beirut. AlKiama Church started with a small group of believers. Daoud Tleel, Fayez Sakhnini, Ayoub Abu Na’eem, and Raja Allaaty began meeting in homes in Hadath. An Egyptian theology student, Ps. Khalil Ibrahim, pastored the church until 1976. The Lebanese civil war forced Ps. Khalil to flee. Leadership then passed to Ps. Ghassan Khalaf, who strengthened the church’s biblical foundation. In 2008, Ps. Hikmat Kashouh became senior pastor. Under his leadership, AlKiama Church experienced exponential growth.
AlKiama Church’s location near refugee communities presented both challenges and opportunities. The church embraced its role in serving those in need. They provided practical support and spiritual guidance to Iraqi, Syrian, and Lebanese families. This holistic ministry encompassed essential supplies, medical assistance, educational support, and counseling. AlKiama Church became a place of refuge. It was a place where people from diverse backgrounds found love and acceptance.
The influx of refugees from different cultures brought initial conflicts. However, AlKiama Church learned to navigate these challenges. This experience fostered spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of unity within diversity. The church’s commitment to love and service transformed it into a vibrant tapestry of cultures and backgrounds. AlKiama Church beautifully reflects the image of Christ’s love.
AlKiama Church’s impact extends beyond its local community. Through a partnership with SAT-7, their services are broadcast across the Arab world. These broadcasts aim to share the message of hope and love found in Jesus Christ. They use creative methods, like a basket of tomatoes, to illustrate biblical teachings. AlKiama Church strives to make a lasting impact on the lives of people throughout the Middle East and North Africa. They encourage viewers to love God and their neighbors. AlKiama Church’s story is a testament to the power of faith. It shows the importance of serving others, especially during times of conflict and displacement.