The Chaldean Diocese of Beirut hosted a training session on Saturday, December 7, 2024, under the patronage of His Excellency Bishop Michel Kassarji, Primate of the Chaldean Church in Lebanon. The session, titled “Crisis Management and Church Response in Times of Disasters,” was organized in collaboration with the Armenian Orthodox Diocese of Lebanon, the Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of Beirut, and supported by Tearfund and the Middle East Council of Churches.
The event commenced at 9:00 AM with an address by His Excellency Bishop Michel Kassarji, who emphasized the importance of the training in enhancing the Church’s social efforts during emergencies.
The first session, led by Mr. Georges Makdisi, covered the types of disasters, their impact on individuals and communities, and the vital role of local churches in crisis response, including the establishment and organization of “Emergency Committees.”
In the second session, led by Deacon Garen Yosoulkanian, a Bible study was presented under the theme “Why Does God Allow Suffering?” The discussion also addressed church policies and codes of conduct during emergencies, accompanied by group activities.
The third session featured Mrs. Maryann Korkys, who spoke on “Psychological First Aid and Preservation During Emergencies.” She highlighted international humanitarian standards and policies guiding relief efforts.
The day concluded at 4:30 PM with an evaluation by participants, including clergy and laity from various churches. The closing prayers were offered by Monsignor Raphael Traboulsi, Vicar General of the Chaldean Diocese of Beirut; Father Maurice Wehbeh from the Greek Catholic Church; and Father Garen Malkhanian.
العربية