Mergon’s Post

What do we mean when we call a #church a #sanctuary? Does the term #sanctuary evoke a quiet space of personal spiritual reflection, or is it a physical community offering sanctuary from violence and hunger? Can it be both? As the international community urgently responds to yet another humanitarian crisis in Haiti, and as INGOs strive to demonstrate their relevance in their first-response efforts, it's crucial to recognize that Haitian CSOs and church leaders are already on the ground, providing immediate assistance. The photos above are from local #Wesleyan churches in southern #Haiti accommodating families fleeing Haiti's gang violence in Port-au-Prince—a very literal church sanctuary. " Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. " Saint James, the brother of Jesus. What does it mean to be relevant in a humanitarian crisis—pallets on a plane or a pastor in the parish? At World Hope International, the answer is usually both. But we know the frontline and first response are local—already present and relevant. Stand with World Hope in supporting the local church initiatives that are the backbone of the sanctuary movement, providing a haven for those affected by violence in Haiti.  https://lnkd.in/e-7yRaCG P.S. Does anyone remember the "Sanctuary Movement" within the North American church in the 1980s? 

Media silence around Christian Persecution was the topic of my final year capstone research project. 1 in every 7 Christians, over 365 million people face severe levels of persecution for their faith in Christ. The top 50 countries where these persecuted Christian live are in the Global South. The majority of believers today are found in Sub Saharan Africa, Asia, and the Americas. In Nigeria, Christian persecution has reached genocidal levels. The Iranian Church is the fastest growing evangelical movement in the world! Yet despite reports of genocide, despite contemporary reality, the media still turns a blind eye on the suffering of hundreds of millions of black and brown Christians. The media still propagates the narrative that Christianity is a religion of whiteness, privilege and dominance. This narrative further perpetuates the notion that Christians are less vulnerable to persecution than those from other religions. The reality is that Christians are now the most persecuted religious group in the world and more awareness needs to be raised to help those Christians suffering in silence. One way you can combat this narrative is by supporting and sharing the work that Open Doors International does to advocate for persecuted Christians. Sign the Arise Africa petition to join in the fight for protection, justice, restoration and freedom of belief! 🔗 https://lnkd.in/ehsw3j-h #ChristianPersecution #freedomofbelief #peacebuilding #advocacy #persecution #change #petition

*The Holy Qur’an reminds us: "And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely." (Qur’an 5:32). " *The Torah teaches us: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Leviticus 19:18). *The Gospel encourages us: "Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased." (Hebrews 13:16). I believe that volunteering and helping others is the value of man on earth as many various religious texts echoed , Today, on International Volunteer Day, I celebrate the incredible impact of volunteerism around the world, with a special focus on Africa and Sudan. In regions where conflict has left deep scars, volunteers are the unsung heroes who bring hope, healing, and resilience to communities in need. Volunteerism is more than just an act of service; it is a testament to the value of humanity on Earth. It embodies compassion, solidarity, and the unwavering belief that we can make a difference. In Africa and Sudan, volunteers play a crucial role in providing essential services such as education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid. We help rebuild communities torn apart by conflict and foster peace through understanding and cooperation. As we honor this day, let us recognize the tireless efforts of volunteers who work towards peace and development in challenging environments. Their dedication not only transforms lives but also inspires us all to contribute positively to our world. Let’s continue to support volunteer initiatives that uplift communities in Africa, Sudan, and beyond. Together, we can create a future where every person has the opportunity to thrive. * attached is a vedio from community outreach I coordinated . #InternationalVolunteerDay #Volunteerism #Africa #Sudan #PeaceBuilding #CommunityService

L𝐄T U𝐒 𝐏R𝐎T𝐄C𝐓 𝐎U𝐑 𝐊E𝐍Y𝐀N N𝐀T𝐈O𝐍 Hello Gen Z, My deepest sympathies are with the families of those who have lost loved ones during these tumultuous times. May their souls always be at peace. We understand the anger and frustration that led to the most recent demonstrations. Your concerns are valid, and people are paying attention to you. But I implore you to think about how our actions will affect society as a whole. Our country has a bright future ahead of us, along with a rich past. However, turmoil and violence only serve to further divide us. Take a look at some African nations, which are plagued by internal conflict: the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Sudan, and Libya. We can't let ourselves go down the same route. It is the power of forgiveness that our faith teaches. According to Quran 42:40, Allah states that "whoever makes amends and pardons others, his reward is [due] from Allah." In the Bible, we are encouraged to "treat one another with kindness and compassion, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you" (Ephesians 4:32). Who are we to refuse one another forgiveness if God, in His boundless mercy, pardons our sins? Outsiders cannot address the issues that our country faces. We have to work together to find a solution. From within our borders as much as beyond, some wish to split us apart. Nevertheless, it is our duty to exercise critical and rational thought, to keep in mind our common past, and to look forward to a better future. Let us not leave a destructive legacy for our kids and grand-kids. Instead, let us engage in meaningful discourse, hear each other's concerns, and collaborate to come up with solutions that are accepted by all and sundry. We're stronger together. Let us unite in our love for Kenya to create a future in which everyone may prosper. With hope and solidarity.

Everything we do is driven by our resolutions - faith, integrity, collaboration and commitment. Faith - 🙏 Honoring God in Obedient Faith: We're dedicated to modeling Christ's love in all our endeavors, recognizing the importance of faith in guiding our actions and decisions. Integrity - 🕊️ Acting with Integrity: Integrity is at the core of everything we do. We pledge to uphold the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency and trustworthiness in our interactions. Collaboration - 🤝 Prioritizing Collaboration: We believe in the power of collaboration. We're eager to work with anyone who shares our passion for supporting Haitian communities, whether through their gifts, talents, or resources. Commitment - 🇭🇹 Upholding our Commitment to Haiti: Our commitment to serving Haiti remains unwavering, no matter the challenges we may face. We're dedicated to continuing our ministry and making a lasting impact on the lives of Haitians. If our resolutions resonate with you or someone you may know, please share our page with them or tag them in the comments below. 💙 #helpinghaiti #hha #ourstory #impactinglives

NEXT THURSDAY WE WILL GO HOME. ( NEXT GOAL IN HIS PERFECT TIME GOING HOME TO ISRAEL) As we reflect on the past year, the journey of faith and trust has been truly transformative. Through challenges and triumphs, one thing remains clear – the power of unwavering belief in the impossible. Trusting in Hashem's divine guidance has led to unimaginable blessings and miracles, reshaping our lives in ways we could never have foreseen. In a world where accomplishments and titles often take center stage, it is essential to remember the humility and strength found in surrendering to a higher power. G-d Of Avraham, Yitzchak and Yaakov! Letting go of ego and embracing true faith opens the door to extraordinary possibilities beyond our wildest dreams. Today, as we celebrate all that has been achieved, let us offer gratitude and praise to the source of all blessings. In moments of humility and reverence, we recognize that true honor and glory belong to a higher authority. G-D OF ISRAEL OUR G-D HASHEM!!! OUR FATHER OUR ALL IN ALL. May we continue to walk in faith, acknowledging the miraculous hand that guides our path. Read the message 👇 👇 hashtag #Faith #Trust #Gratitude #Miracles 👇 👇 WE STOOD FOR ONE YEAR ON THIS LIST TO GET A HOUSE. NOW READ: 👉 Huge backlog in housing status holders in municipalities! Only nine out of 56 municipalities meet the government's housing requirements. Smaller municipalities, especially those with limited social housing units, struggle to provide suitable homes. The housing market faces immense pressure, with individuals seeking social housing enduring years-long waiting lists. This challenge extends to various groups, including refugees from Ukraine and Syria, along with status holders - asylum seekers permitted to remain in the country. #HousingCrisis #SocialHousing #Refugees #StatusHolders

11.11.2022... the date that became a symbol for the residents of Kherson region - liberation that brought not only happiness, but also unbearable pain. It seems like only 730 days after the occupation, but in fact it is the eternity. 15,520 hours of pain, anxious anticipation, endless minutes when the heart trembles from every explosion. Is this freedom worth such a terrible price? Destroyed lives, empty houses, silent fearful streets that seem to be frozen in anticipation. But the people of Kherson know that they will not exchange this chance to be free for the quiet terror of occupation. Volunteers, public figures, caring people - there are few of them, but they continue the fight. Their hearts save the Kherson region today. The NGO City of Power has been a reliable shoulder for Kherson and its region for three years now, and since November 11, 2022, we realized that we measure these two years not in time, but in tons of help, in steps towards revival, in projects, in small and large victories, in the warmth of an outstretched hand, in how someone finds new hope among the ruins.

NEXT THURSDAY WE WILL GO HOME. ( NEXT GOAL IN HIS PERFECT TIME GOING HOME TO ISRAEL) As we reflect on the past year, the journey of faith and trust has been truly transformative. Through challenges and triumphs, one thing remains clear – the power of unwavering belief in the impossible. Trusting in Hashem's divine guidance has led to unimaginable blessings and miracles, reshaping our lives in ways we could never have foreseen. In a world where accomplishments and titles often take center stage, it is essential to remember the humility and strength found in surrendering to a higher power. G-d Of Avraham, Yitzchak and Yaakov! Letting go of ego and embracing true faith opens the door to extraordinary possibilities beyond our wildest dreams. Today, as we celebrate all that has been achieved, let us offer gratitude and praise to the source of all blessings. In moments of humility and reverence, we recognize that true honor and glory belong to a higher authority. G-D OF ISRAEL OUR G-D HASHEM!!! OUR FATHER OUR ALL IN ALL. May we continue to walk in faith, acknowledging the miraculous hand that guides our path. Read the message 👇 👇 #Faith #Trust #Gratitude #Miracles 👇 👇 WE STOOD FOR ONE YEAR ON THIS LIST TO GET A HOUSE. NOW READ: 👉 Huge backlog in housing status holders in municipalities! Only nine out of 56 municipalities meet the government's housing requirements. Smaller municipalities, especially those with limited social housing units, struggle to provide suitable homes. The housing market faces immense pressure, with individuals seeking social housing enduring years-long waiting lists. This challenge extends to various groups, including refugees from Ukraine and Syria, along with status holders - asylum seekers permitted to remain in the country. #HousingCrisis #SocialHousing #Refugees #StatusHolders