Issam Ghattas, leader of Manara Ministries in Jordan, told Christian Aid that the Palestinian-Israeli conflict is producing widespread anxiety and discouragement throughout the Middle East. "A peaceful resolution to the conflict doesn't seem to be in sight, but we struggle to stand firm in the certainty of our Lord's reign and sovereignty," he said.

The ministry is working to supply Christians in the region with food and other necessities. For some time its workers have also been trucking in supplies to Christians in Iraq, who have suffered deprivation during the embargo.

"In the past two months, our team has been in Iraq where life is becoming harder for the people," Ghattas said. "Resources are scarce. They appreciate any little help they can get. On that last trip, our team was in a dangerous car accident, on the road between Baghdad and Basra. This is only one of the many hazards our team faces when they travel to Iraq. Often when they leave we wonder if we will see them again. We praise the Lord that He has kept them safe so far and we entrust them to His hands every time they leave."

Manara's primary work is to make Bibles and Christian literature available in Islamic countries of North Africa and the Middle East. They participate in book fairs throughout the region, by invitation and with official permission.

"Our team will travel to Iraq again soon for a Children's Festival," Ghattas said. "We are taking 116 boxes of educational children's books and 20 boxes of Christian books that will be sold at minimal prices."

The 9,454 books, mostly donated, are valued at $25,425. Additional contributions are being sought to cover the costs of travel, rent, exhibition and accommodation for his field staff.

"Any help we get will enable us to bring the books to people who so desperately need them," he said.

Ghattas reported that Manara was invited to a book fair in Sudan for the first time this March. "About 100 boxes of educational and Christian books were sent to the book fair," he said. "We hope to have more connections there for the coming years."

Ghattas urges Christians around the world to consider the needs of the suffering in this area of the world. "Your brothers and sisters in this area need your prayers and support more than any time before," he said. "This is the real time to cry with the suffering, and feel with the hungry."

For additional information write insider@christianaid.org and put MI-315 420-MBM on the subject line.