The National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon Convenes Its 62nd General Assembly Under Theme of Renewal and Hope

The National Evangelical Synod of Syria and Lebanon (NESSL) opened its 62nd General Assembly Monday, September 1, 2025, at the Dhour Chweir Evangelical Center in Lebanon. The three-day gathering, held Sept. 1-3, brings together pastors, delegates and church leaders for worship, celebration, reflection and decision-making on the life and mission of the Synod.

The Assembly theme, drawn from Isaiah 43:18-19, is: “Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing.” The theme underscores God’s promise of renewal and hope amid ongoing challenges in Syria, Lebanon and the broader region.

In her address, the Reverend Najla Kassab, President of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC), said the gathering reflected a message of hope: “In the middle of all the challenges the General Assembly carried a message of hope rooted in our coming together as a body of Christ dedicated to serve the people in the region and secure human dignity for all.”

The Reverend Dr. Setri Nyomi, general secretary of the WCRC, brought greetings on behalf of the global Reformed family and praised NESSL’s steadfast witness:

“The NESSL has been a church faithful to God in a context of many challenges, especially in Syria and Lebanon. These challenges have escalated in recent years, yet you have remained steadfast in your witness, making a difference in your context. Your sisters and brothers through the WCRC have been in solidarity with you and praying along.”

Reflecting on the Assembly’s theme, Nyomi said: “It may be tempting to look back and wonder whether there is any hope in a world in which death and destruction seem to be everywhere. But your theme is a fresh reminder not to dwell on the negative things of old, but to look to God who promises a new life-giving reality. We do not sit back idly waiting for this new thing—rather, we pray and engage in action as God’s agents, discerning and participating in what God is doing.”

Nyomi also expressed gratitude for NESSL’s contribution to the global Reformed family through Kassab’s leadership as WCRC President for the past eight years:

“For you have given us a real gift of a leader. We thank God for her leadership and thank you, the NESSL, for offering her for this global ministry. We ask for your prayers as she prepares to preside over the upcoming WCRC General Council in Chiang Mai, Thailand.”

The 62nd General Assembly reaffirmed NESSL’s mission to serve faithfully in times of trial, embody Christ’s love, uphold human dignity and discern the “new thing” God is doing in the region and beyond.

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This news was originally published on the Website of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC).