Child Friendly Spaces, Syria

It is now 12 years since the Syrian civil war began. In that time, it has developed into one of the world’s most complex humanitarian emergencies and has inflicted unimaginable loss and devastation to the Syrian people and their economy. According to the 2022 Syria Humanitarian Needs Overview, there are 14.6 million people within Syria in need of humanitarian assistance, including 6.9 million internally displaced persons.

The recent earthquake (February 2023) has inflicted further devastation on an already traumatised, crisis-hit population, with over 7,000 deaths in Syria and a further 500,000 people forced out of their homes (UN).

In this context, children remain one of the most vulnerable groups. Many live in areas where basic services, including schools, are almost non-existent – and rates of malnutrition, disease and disability have increased sharply over the course of the conflict.

Working through Middle East Revive and Thrive (MERATH), which partners with local churches in Syria, Embrace is supporting three Child Friendly Spaces – in Homs, Damascus and Mhardeh. These places provide informal educational and fun activities for children. As safe spaces to learn and play, they reduce the risk of children falling victim to child labour, early marriage or sexual exploitation, and significantly improve children’s psychosocial wellbeing.

Bible reading

People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

Luke 18:15-17

Thought

This short extract demonstrates the value that Jesus places on children. At the time, children were considered to have a low status in society. Jesus contradicts this societal norm by inviting young children into his presence, treating them with compassion and protecting them from others. This reflects the gospel truth that Jesus is accessible to all individuals, regardless of their age or social standing.

Ask yourself: Think of practical ways that we can reflect Christ’s attitude and take time to care for children or those who are marginalised.

Prayer

Loving God,

We thank you that you sent your Son into our broken world to restore us to yourself. We marvel at the mystery of the Incarnation – how the Son of God willingly became a helpless baby and understands exactly what it is like to be a child.

We lift before you the Child Friendly Spaces in Syria. You know each child who attends by name; we pray for your protection upon them and that you would richly bless each and every one. Help those who coordinate the project – may they continue to do so with compassion, wisdom and creativity.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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