Iraq

From Rev. Farouk Hammo, Pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Baghdad and on behalf of Rev. Haitham Jazrawi, Pastor, Presbyterian Church in Kirkuk, and Dr. Zuhair Fathallah, Elder, Presbyterian Church in Basrah

Greetings in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, 

We are living in uncertain times as a “micro virus”  attacks mankind, worldwide, is causing much disturbance and bringing the world to a stand-still. Our churches are standing in firm faith, as usual;  however, our financial situations have been hit hard.  

Our three church-run preschools and the one elementary school have been closed since mid-February which means no school fees are being paid by parents. At the same time, we have staff who need to be supported by their salaries: 30 staff in both Kirkuk and Baghdad and 20 staff in Basrah.

Also, many church families have lost their employment which, in turn, means that our church's income from tithes and offerings---which form a good part of our support---has been almost lost, as well.  Yet, all our three churches feel compelled to keep our ministries running and pay their pastors, not to mention the need for fuel which runs the generators. It's a huge challenge that we are facing! 

 On behalf of the three congregations and their leadership, I lift up our needs to our friends at The Outreach Foundation--- first of all, we need your prayers and supplications for protection and wisdom to survive and minister during this hard time, and, secondly, we need your financial support to help us survive during this hard time. Thank you. 

 May the Almighty bless you richly always, Amen.