Our lebanese team has a deep desire to include all churches in GWI’s camp ministry. This is a groundbreaking effort as most churches in Lebanon do not work together. Interview with one of your team’s member.
What do relationships between local churches and GWI Lebanon look like?
«That is a great question… To begin with, all of our camp volunteers come from local churches. More and more we realize the great blessing and incredible strength we have as we come together to reach children.»
How does GWI reach out to the local churches?
«We provide leadership training to churches of various denominations. Through this, we are able to develop trust and mutual respect. Recently, we had the extrememly rewarding experience of helping three churches organize and prepare their summer camps. Many churches have also become involved in the GWI Kids Games outreach. For some, this is the first time they have ever met. As the churches work together and at the same time get to know each other, the barriers are breaking down.»
Is this truly making a difference?
«Thanks to God and thanks to all of our supporters, the impact has been dynamic! True friendships and partnerships are forming. Communication among the churches is open and mutual encouragement has become a reality. We constantly remind our volunteers that church is their primary ministry. We do not want them to be so involved with our camps that they have no time or energy to help their church. We believe that a faithful church member is a much more efficient volunteer.» GWI is widely known in Lebanon as the front runner in children’s ministry.»