The Lingering Impact of War
In Zahle and across the Bekaa, the effects of last year’s war still linger. Many young people are still reeling from the fear and isolation it brought, memories of bombings seen from their balconies, schools closed, friendships disrupted, and a deep uncertainty that hasn’t fully lifted.
Amid this fragile reality, the Church has remained a steady presence. Christian workers and volunteers continue to serve faithfully, reaching out to a generation still finding its footing after months of turmoil.
Why Youth Ministry Matters Now
Youth ministry has been a vital part of that work. Every week, young believers pour their hearts into serving, preparing talks, planning games, and showing up for teens who simply need someone to listen.
Yet behind that energy lies a quiet challenge: many of these young leaders serve without consistent guidance or support, learning as they go.
That’s why this year, a new group of young leaders from across the Bekaa have joined Leaders in Training (LIT), a YFC program designed to walk alongside them in their journey of ministry and faith.
Voices of Young Leaders
Rina
Rina, a YFC Lebanon staff member, is one of the young leaders who stepped into this journey. Every week, she mentors teens at AXIS Youth Center and in her church, where she also leads worship.
“I want to grow closer to the youth I serve and learn how to reach them better,” she shares.
Through LIT, she hopes to gain tools, skills, and deeper faith to make that vision real. And she’s not alone.
Fadi
Fadi, a young adult leader and active volunteer at AXIS, says he’s eager to discover new ways to inspire and effectively communicate with young people.
“I want to learn how to build trust and lead with purpose,” he explains.
Loulou
For Loulou, also an active volunteer at AXIS, who has mostly worked with kids until now, the shift to youth ministry hasn’t been easy.
“It’s challenging to deal with youth characters,” she admits. “Working with them means being active and putting myself in their shoes instead of judging. That’s why I joined LIT. I want to understand them and help them spiritually.”
Michel
And for Michel, from True Vine Church in Zahle, LIT is already proving transformative.
“Two sessions have already passed, and the topics have been enlightening,” he shares. “They’ve shed light on things I’ve gone through as a teenager. I want to be a healthy leader—because we’ve all seen what unhealthy leadership looks like—and I believe this training will help me make a real difference.”
A Quiet but Powerful Sign of Hope
Across Zahle and the Bekaa, young leaders like Rina, Fadi, Loulou, and Michel are stepping forward with open hearts and willing hands. In a region still healing, their growth is a quiet but powerful sign of hope, proof that even after seasons of fear, God continues to raise leaders who will carry His love into the lives of others.
