Stories

There was grinning across the faces of the graduates as they put on the cap and gowns. After the hours and hours of late studies and practice tests. One month ago, the group of students traveled across to Syria for their tests. This in by itself was not an easy feat. With the troubles for Syrians in Lebanon there was concern that they kids would get stuck in Syria if they left.

With many calls back and forth to official offices getting special permissions and filling out papers the parents were assured that there would be no problems at the border. They crossed and dedicated themselves to a week’s worth of testing.

After weeks of waiting the results came back and 39 kids were able to walk the stage full of the pride of a job well done. Monday was a time of celebration and joy as they took their certificates while family, friends and proud teachers watched.

Getting to this day has not been easy. In parts of Syrian culture these kids would already be functioning as adults. There were many conversations with parents convincing them to let the kids stay in school. For the girls it was marriage proposals and for the boys work in factories or fields. Thankfully over many cups of tea and many hard and direct conversations the parents were convinced. After the graduation some of the parents even approached us about how their children can continue their education! These parents once skeptical had been convinced.

We look forward to what God has planned for these youth. We pray that each dream they dreamed while at our school comes to fruition that that they can see the hand of God in their lives opening their hearts and doors for their future.