Many Middle Eastern countries recognize the existing, historic Christian communities but deny non-Christian citizens the right to espouse the Christian faith – and they actively persecute those who do.

For Lebanese followers of Christ, the call to peacemaking is not just a moral ideal and an expression of our love for God, but also a necessity for the survival of a diverse nation.

The future of the building is uncertain, it needs a 870,000 euros renovation. The site “represents the living memory of a Europe immersed in a cruel war”, says a historian.

Remei Oliva tells in a book how she fled to France and ended up in a centre run by Elisabeth Eidenbenz, the daughter of a pastor. “Without her, I would have died”, says the son.

The brokenness in Lebanon is overwhelming. Even so, the work of churches and Christian NGOs is profoundly encouraging.

The danger to the Christian community has increased after the coup in February. Churches keep serving their neighbours and sharing the gospel.

An investigation looks for the mass grave where Atilano Coco, a Spanish pastor murdered by Franco's military in 1936, might be buried.