Friday May 23, 2025
The team arrived at the Near East School of Theology (NEST), where they had a productive meeting with the school president, Martin Accad. Later in the day, the team traveled to Beirut to engage with the leaders of the National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon. Both discussions proved to be highly insightful, focusing on the current state of each institution, their visions for the future, and potential opportunities for collaboration.
Although Christian growth has slowed in recent years, there is a renewed sense of hope thanks to several programs being introduced, like exchange studies offered for a shorter time frame or community centers for the Syrian Refugees.
Saturday May 24
The team visited Byblos, a remarkable city that has been continuously inhabited since 5000 BC. Known for its production of papyrus, Byblos is also credited as the first city to print the Bible, which is why it is believed to have influenced the name ‘Bible.’ Even more impressive was the opportunity to attend the graduation ceremony for the 2025 graduating class of NEST. Sharing in their joy was a truly uplifting experience for us all. Prayers for these graduates, their future and these of their mentors is very important.
Sunday May 25, 2025
Our delegation went to worship at the National Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Rabiya. We were privileged to engage with Rev. Najla Kassab, President of the World Communion of Reformed Churches, and Rev. Joseph Kassab, President of the Supreme Council of the Evangelical Community in Syria and Lebanon. Commissioned Ruling Elder Jack Irwin extended greetings to the congregation on behalf of our group. The team then traveled and safely arrived in Cairo, Egypt.
Monday–Wednesday, May 26–28
Over these days, the team engaged in a series of productive meetings with several Egyptian organizations, including the Coptic Evangelical Organization for Social Services (CEOSS), the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo (ETSC), and various councils within the Synod of the Nile.
Each organization shared meaningful insights into their ongoing efforts to spread the love of Jesus throughout Egypt and beyond. The team was deeply moved by personal testimonies that highlighted the transformative and essential role these ministries play in the lives of individuals across the region. Additionally, they had the opportunity to hear from an Egyptian pastor currently serving in Iraq, who shared inspiring updates on the growth of his church in recent years.
A wealth of information was exchanged, with a shared commitment to fostering long-term communication and partnership.
During their day of rest, the team visited the Pyramids of Giza and immersed themselves in Egypt’s rich history and culture.
Thursday, May 29, 2025
The team safely arrived in El Minia, a city located approximately 170 miles south of Cairo. From there, they traveled to New El Minia, where the local church is working toward completing construction of a new building in a rapidly developing neighborhood, with hopes of finishing by December.
The team also visited the original church established in El Minia. With a history spanning 150 years, this church is now constructing a new facility—an effort sparked by the touching generosity of a child who chose to donate his allowance to the church rather than spend it chips.
More on that inspiring story to come…
Friday, May 30, 2025
Today, the team had the opportunity to meet with over 40 pastors from El Minia, which is also Pastor Mouris’ hometown. Many came to show their support and appreciation for his ongoing contributions to the Arabic-speaking community.
The members of the Council of the Presbytery of El Minia was also present and came prepared to discuss the current state of their various committees, including those focused on pastoral care, education, and media communications, among others.
Our team is committed to deepening our understanding of the various Egyptian Presbytery’s structure and operations, with the goal of sharing best practices and working collaboratively to further the expansion of the Kingdom.
Saturday, May 31, 2025
After meeting with the counsel pastors of the Presbytery of Malawi and learning about their current situation, the team continued their journey south to Assiut, where they will spend their final days before returning to Cairo. In Assiut, they enjoyed a warm and gracious dinner hosted by Pastor Basim and his wife of the Second Presbyterian Church of Assuit. During their visit to the church, they were given an extensive tour of the medical facilities and clinics located beneath the church building. These facilities serve the surrounding community, offering care to individuals regardless of religious affiliation.
The team’s remaining plans are to attend a Pastors Gathering in Asyut on June 2 and then travel to Cairo where, on June 3, they will travel from Cairo to Istanbul, connecting to a direct flight to LAX arriving home later that same day.
