BEYOND THE ARAB SPRING – OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE MIDDLE EASTERN CHURCH
Various reports have commented recently that the Arab Spring is turning into a “Christian winter” for the Church in the Middle East and North Africa. In Egypt large numbers of Christians have emigrated in the face of unrelenting opposition; there are reports that Christians in Syria are being specifically targeted in the ongoing conflict. Overall, the picture for the Middle Eastern Church seems no better than it was before the uprisings began.
In contrast to this, SAT-7’s International CEO, Dr Terence Ascott, said recently, “People become more open to new ideas at a time of turbulence. SAT-7 is providing a platform for important Christian messages of reconciliation and forgiveness in the midst of violence and people’s personal pain.”
SAT-7 staff and guest speakers will be addressing this issue and discussing what opportunities there are for the Middle Eastern Church to have a greater voice in society at an event in Belfast on 25th April.
A London-based Middle Eastern researcher, academic and writer will speak on the current situation for the Church in the Middle East. He is a frequent commentator on Middle East issues in international and British media. Representatives of SAT-7 will also speak about what the ministry is doing to meet these challenges.
The invitation-only event is being held at Seasons Restaurant, Belfast and will include a Middle Eastern meal. SAT-7 is keen to generate a greater understanding of the situation facing Christians in the Middle East and provoke discussion amongst the churches represented on the evening.