More than 14 years of war have left around 7.1 million people displaced from their homes within Syria. Conflict, flooding and the earthquake that hit the region in 2023 have left many people struggling to afford essentials. This week, pray for the people of Syria to recover.
Sunday 17 May
A recent report by the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) states that, ‘One in five displaced people in Syria – primarily from Idlib, Aleppo and Hama – are residing in tents or makeshift shelters under harsh living conditions.’ Loving God, we pray for strength for communities that have lost everything. Amen.
Monday 18 May
Since November 2024, the IOM report states that more than 2 million Syrians have returned to the homes they’d originally left. Lord, we pray for each of these families as they discover damaged and broken buildings, often looted and requiring rebuilding. We pray for your comfort as they face such loss, and for your provision to meet their every need. Amen.
Tuesday 19 May
‘During the war, we were forced to flee from our house,’ says Dalal, mother of four. ‘We came back after the war ended, but our neighbourhood had been a frontline in the conflict. Our building was damaged, and our home destroyed.’ Lord, fill families like Dalal’s with strength and hope amid the destruction. Amen.
Wednesday 20 May
To help support her husband and children, Dalal came up with the idea of making El Mouneh (traditional preserves like jams and pickles) to sell. ‘I heard that [Tearfund’s local partner] provides support for small projects like the one I wanted to start,’ says Dalal. ‘Thanks be to God, my project proposal was accepted!’ Loving God, we thank you for creativity even in the most difficult times. Amen.
Thursday 21 May
‘A mountain of bills piled on the table that I don’t have any money to pay,’ says Amal. ‘Scars from the earthquake are still there on the walls and windows of the house. A simple wish to cook a decent meal is a distant memory, without the gas to do so.’ Pray for families in Syria like Amal’s, facing enormous challenges.
Friday 22 May
‘The earthquake devastated our home,’ says 73-year-old widow Leila, who has two disabled children. ‘We rely on charity for food, and we can’t afford to fix the damage or even replace the shaking front door, caused by the earthquake.’ Lord, may Leila and her family know you are close to them at this time. Amen.
Saturday 23 May
Tearfund’s partner in Aleppo heard about Leila’s desperate situation. A new front door was installed, along with a replacement window, a bathroom door and other painting work. Praise God that Leila now says, ‘Having this door closed brings me a sense of peace. This is the first time I feel safe since my husband passed away.’
