 In June, Pastor Henry Biar (pictured) of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Skokie, Illinois, reached out to LCC with a heartfelt plea for a reliable vehicle for a cherished parishioner named Hazim and his family. Gratefully, they report that a generous donor provided this essential gift. Hazim and his family are deeply touched and eternally thankful.
Hazim’s journey is a testament to faith and resilience. Called by the Lord to serve in ministry, he is being mentored by Pastor Biar and Pastor Hesham Shehab (Messiah for Muslims) as he prepares for a future in ministry. Hazim’s past is marked by extraordinary bravery. As an imam for 25 years, he commanded his own security forces. His life took a dramatic and dangerous turn when he began protecting Christian families in his area from ISIS. This courageous act led to an assassination attempt on his life, resulting in a severe leg injury. Faced with the prospect of amputation, he prayed fervently for his leg to be saved. That night, he experienced a dream where Jesus Christ appeared to him, promising to save his leg if he chose to follow Him. Miraculously, the next morning the doctors decided that amputation was not necessary. This divine intervention marked the beginning of his profound conversion to Christianity. Hazim and his family have endured unimaginable hardships, including the loss of their home and the traumatic kidnapping of their eldest daughter by ISIS. Despite these trials, they have bravely started anew in the U.S. facing the overwhelming choices and costs associated with their new life. They have found solace and strength in the St. Paul's congregation. They have been deeply moved by the love and support they have received during worship services. Our congregation has rallied around them, helping with their essential needs as they adjust to their new life. Yet, the challenges are still many. Pastor Biar writes: Currently, [Hazim and his family] are in urgent need of stable housing. They have been staying with someone temporarily, but now it's time for them to find a place they can truly call home. As their church family, we are doing everything we can to assist them during this transition. However, we need your help. Knowing the compassionate spirit of Lutheran Church Charities and your history of generosity, we humbly ask you to consider donating to help Hazim and his family secure a safe and stable home. Your support will not only provide them with the basic necessity of shelter but also give them the stability they need to continue their journey of faith and service. Thank you for keeping the family in your thoughts and prayers. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in their lives as they rebuild and thrive in our community. With heartfelt gratitude, Pastor Biar St. Paul Lutheran Church Skokie, Illinois Comments are closed.
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