Journey of Hope

In this episode of Journey of Hope, we speak with Pastor Jeff Henry of Lake Hills Church about their impactful mission trips to Lebanon. He shares how firsthand experience reshaped his understanding of global missions, the unexpected lessons learned, and the profound impact on his team. We also explore the driving force behind their international service and, of course, debate the superiority of Lebanese cuisine. Join us for a conversation about faith, service, and the transformative power of stepping beyond our borders.

Get the latest update from Lebanon with Camille Melke, co-founder and CEO of Heart for Lebanon. This episode delves into the impact of the recent conflict, the economic crisis, and the challenges facing vulnerable communities. We also highlight the inspiring work of Heart for Lebanon, including a powerful story of survival, and how they are sharing the hope of Christ.

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In this episode of Journey of Hope, we dive into the power of prayer and its role in transforming lives in Lebanon. Host Elio Constantine is joined by Darren Adwalpalker, Go Pastor at Highland Park Community Church (Casper, Wy) and a close partner of Heart for Lebanon.

Together, they share personal experiences of prayer in times of crisis, and how prayer connects us to the work God is doing around the world.You'll also hear Jana’s moving story—a student in Heart for Lebanon’s HOPE Educational Program—who found worth and forgiveness through the power of prayer.<...

In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine sits down with Bashir, a lead pastor Hope Evangelical Church and the Field Manager at Heart for Lebanon in the Bekaa Valley. They reflect on the recent trials and triumphs faced by the Lebanese people during a tumultuous period from September 2024 to January 2025. As conflict escalated between Hezbollah and Israel, over a million people in Lebanon were displaced, and the nation faced unprecedented economic challenges. Yet, amidst the despair, Bashir shares powerful testimonies of how God was at work, answering prayers and providing hope.

Listeners will hear about...

In this powerful episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine reconnects with Milad, Heart for Lebanon's field manager and a lead pastor, to discuss the recent challenges and triumphs faced by communities in southern Lebanon. As the region emerges from a period of intense conflict, they reflect on the impact of the September aggression between Israel and Hezbollah, which displaced hundreds of thousands of people and forced Heart for Lebanon to temporarily halt operations. However, with the recent ceasefire and the formation of a new government, hope is beginning to flourish once again.

Milad shares heartwarming stories...

In this compelling episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine delves into the profound concept of peace in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon, amidst recent political and military developments. Joined by Camille Melki, co-founder of Heart for Lebanon, they explore the ministry's response to the ongoing challenges and opportunities in the region.

Listeners are offered a detailed account of the recent ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel, the regime change in Syria, and Lebanon's new presidential leadership. Despite these changes, the road to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges. Camille emphasizes that true peace transcends the...

In this New Year episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine is joined by Heart for Lebanon's co-founder, Tom Atema, to discuss the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2025 for Lebanon and the surrounding region. As Lebanon continues to grapple with economic, political, and refugee crises, Heart for Lebanon remains steadfast in its mission to bring hope and transformation through Christ.

Reflecting on the tumultuous events of 2024, Tom shares how the ministry has navigated these hardships by keeping Christ at the center of their efforts. The episode delves into the significant changes in the Middle East...

In this special Christmas episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine invites listeners to reflect on the transformative power of Christ's love as embodied by Heart for Lebanon's mission. As Lebanon faces a challenging year marked by economic and political turmoil, this episode celebrates the stories of hope and change made possible through the support and prayers of Heart for Lebanon's community.

Listeners will hear about the unique pyramid approach to the ministry's philosophy, which emphasizes building relationships and meeting both physical and spiritual needs. Camille Melki, the CEO, shares the organization's two-handed approach to healing and...

In this heartwarming episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine invites listeners to embrace the spirit of Christmas amidst Lebanon's ongoing challenges. As Lebanon faces one of the worst economic crises in recent history and the aftermath of conflict, the episode highlights the resilience and hope found in the message of Christ's birth. Elio is joined by Bashir, field manager for Heart for Lebanon, who shares the organization's efforts to spread the joy of Christmas through various programs and events at the Hope Evangelical Church and beyond.

Listeners will hear about the struggles faced by Lebanese families...

In this impactful episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine navigates the complexities of the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, unraveling the historical and political threads that led to this pivotal moment. Joined by Heart for Lebanon's Co-Founders, Tom Atema and Camille Melki, the discussion dives deep into the implications of the ceasefire for Lebanon and the Ministry's ongoing efforts in the region.

Listeners gain insight into the intricate dynamics at play, including the role of Hezbollah as an Iranian proxy, and the challenges faced by the Lebanese government in negotiating and maintaining peace. Camille...

In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine invites listeners to explore the critical issue of gender inequality in Lebanon, focusing on the plight of women and girls. Against the backdrop of Lebanon's compounded crises—from economic collapse to political instability—Elio sheds light on the structural gender inequalities that persist, despite Lebanon's early advancements in women's rights.

Joining Elio is May-Lee Melki, a passionate advocate for women's empowerment and holistic Ministry. Together, they discuss Heart for Lebanon's comprehensive approach to addressing the needs of women in a society where gender disparities are stark. May-Lee shares her...

In this informational episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine takes us through the heart-wrenching realities faced by Lebanon amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. With the backdrop of Lebanon's economic crisis, Elio provides a historical context to the current conflict, tracing its roots back to the establishment of Israel in 1948 and the subsequent formation of resistance movements like Hezbollah. 

Joining Elio is Camille Melki, co-founder of Heart for Lebanon, who shares the harrowing day-to-day experiences of Lebanese families caught in the crossfire. Camille underscores the critical role of the Church and Heart for Lebanon i...

In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine delves into the transformative power of education with the dedicated teachers of Heart for Lebanon's H.O.P.E. (Helping Overcome Poverty through Education) Program in the south of Lebanon. Discover the challenges they face amidst Lebanon's economic and security crises, and the unwavering commitment that drives them to nurture and educate children from refugee and local communities.

The H.O.P.E. Program addresses, not only financial poverty but also, intellectual and spiritual impoverishment. Through education, children are equipped with essential skills to navigate life's challenges, are...

In this episode, Journey Of Hope podcast host Elio Constantine talks with Heart For Lebanon co-founder Camille Melki about the recent changes to the situation in the Middle East, and how Heart For Lebanon is responding to bring relief, and the hope of Jesus to more people than ever before.

In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine is joined by Camille Melki, CEO and co-founder of Heart for Lebanon, to discuss the organization’s response to Lebanon’s multifaceted crises.

From economic collapse to power shortages, the conversation sheds light on how Heart for Lebanon continues to bring hope to the most vulnerable. Camille elaborates on the country's recent power crisis, explaining how a lack of elected officials and deep-rooted corruption led to a complete shutdown of government-provided electricity. Despite this, Heart for Lebanon remains a beacon of light, thanks to foresighted management and the gene...

In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine sits down with Joseph and Tony from Heart for Lebanon's Team to discuss the transformative Missional Leadership Program. This initiative is designed to equip local Ministry leaders to serve their communities in Lebanon, Syria, and beyond.

Joseph shares the origins of the Missional Leadership Program, which began in response to the influx of Syrian refugees during the Arab Spring and the Syrian war. He explains how the Program aims to move people from despair to hope through Jesus Christ, focusing on both their physical and spiritual needs. The P...

In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine welcomes Tom Atima, co-founder of Heart for Lebanon, to discuss the impactful Summer of Hope Program. This initiative has provided over 2,500 children in Lebanon with a summer filled with joy, education, and the love of Christ amidst the country's ongoing challenges. 

Tom shares the origins and strategy behind Summer of Hope, emphasizing the importance of giving children positive activities during the summer months. He highlights the transformative power of Hope, contrasting it with mere optimism, and explains how the Program instills virtues, character traits, and a Christ-like mindset i...

In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine sits down with Joanna, leader of the Children-at-Risk initiative at Heart for Lebanon, to discuss the transformative power of hope for children in Lebanon this summer. Despite Lebanon's ongoing economic, political, and social crises, Heart for Lebanon is providing a safe and joyous environment for over 2,500 children.

Joanna shares touching stories of resilience, faith, and the profound impact of their activities, including summer camps filled with fun, psychosocial support, and spiritual growth. There is also an update from Freddy, a teammember in the field in southern Lebanon who...

In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine takes us to the Bekaa Valley to speak with Bashir, the pastor of the Hope Evangelical Church and field manager for Heart for Lebanon's operations in the region. Together, they delve into the profound impact of experiencing and sharing the love of Christ.

    Bashir shares his personal testimony of coming to Christ at the age of 17 and how his journey has led him to serve both inside and outside the church walls. He emphasizes that knowing Christ compels us to make Him known to others, and he illustrates th...

Today, we delve into the history and significance of Hope Evangelical Church, exploring how holistic ministry has been vital in planting churches amidst Lebanon's turbulent past and present.

Our guest, Camille Melki, Heart for Lebanon's founding CEO, shares the remarkable journey of how the Hope Evangelical Church in Ghaziel and the Bekaa Valley came to exist. Initially, planting churches was not on Heart for Lebanon's radar. However, the need to provide a safe place for worship and community for those who were suffering became evident. Discover how these churches have become beacons of hope, bringing together people who...

In this episode we delve into the profound influence of prayer in the midst of Lebanon's ongoing trials. Host Elio Constantine, alongside John Crump from Heart for Lebanon's international office, unpacks the transformative and sustaining power of prayer for individuals and nations alike. We are reminded of the pivotal role of prayer partners in supporting Heart for Lebanon's mission, emphasizing that their intercessions are as crucial as financial support. Reflecting on the promises of God regarding prayer, we look at Matthew 7:7 and John 14:13-14, which assure us of the Lord's attentive response to our earnest petitions.

John Crump...

We dive into the transformative power of summer camps as a beacon of light for the children of Lebanon. Host Elio Constantine welcomes us into a discussion about the Summer of Hope initiative, a program designed to bring joy and the love of Christ to Syrian, Kurdish, and Lebanese children amidst the nation's multifaceted crises.

Lebanon, a country grappling with an economic downturn considered one of the worst in recent history, hosts an overwhelming number of Syrian refugee children—estimated between 600,000 to 650,000. In these trying times, the children bear the brunt of the nation's hardships, often facing a fu...

In this episode, we immerse ourselves in the transformative tale of Joseph Sayah, a man who found the true essence of his faith through the Bible study sessions offered by Heart for Lebanon. Join host Elio Constantine as we navigate Joseph's journey from a 'traditional' Christian background in the Bekaa Valley to a profound spiritual awakening that reshaped his life and beliefs. 

Joseph's story is one of resilience and revelation. He grew up amidst the turmoil of civil war, harboring dreams of monastic life that were displaced by military service. His traditional Christian upbringing left him with unanswered qu...

Here we delve into the essence of spiritual formation and the role of Bible studies in fostering a journey towards Christ-like transformation amidst the complexities of Lebanon's cultural mosaic. Host Elio Constantine is joined by Milad Nassar, Heart for Lebanon's South Ministry Center Field Manager and Hope Evangelical Church Ghazieh's Lead Pastor, to discuss the organization's unconditional approach to ministry. They explore how this approach transcends sectarian divides, offering love and dignity to all, irrespective of background or belief.

You'll hear the inspiring testimonies of Idris, a Kurdish refugee who discovers the Bible as a source of love a...

In this episode of Journey of Hope, we step into the classrooms of Heart for Lebanon's H.O.P.E. (Helping Overcome Poverty through Education) Program, where transformative stories unfold every day.

Our host, Elio Constantine, takes us on a journey to discover the profound impact this initiative has on the lives of over 1,000 at-risk children in Lebanon.

Bashir, the field manager and a lead pastor, shares the program's history and its exponential growth from 27 to 400 students in the Bekaa Valley alone. He emphasizes the importance of sharing Christian values and the love of Jesus, which...

In this episode, we turn our attention to a beacon of light amidst the challenges faced by Syrian refugee children in Lebanon. With over 470,000 registered young refugees, and many more unaccounted for, Lebanon stands as the largest per capita host of Syrian refugees worldwide.

This influx puts a strain on the country’s infrastructure and educational system, leaving countless children without access to schooling and facing a precarious future.

Our host, Elio Constantine, guides us through a narrative of transformation, focusing on Heart for Lebanon's H.O.P.E. (Helping Overcome Poverty through Education) Program. This in...