At a time when we are watching a devastating war played out in the Middle East, many of us feel like spectators of appalling violence and destruction. For others here in Australia this is impacting personally on their homelands and families as people are forced to flee and to depend on others for their survival.

Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ,

The situation in Lebanon has dramatically escalated. In just the past 48 hours, 397 people have lost their lives, and more than 59,000 have been displaced from the south of the country.

Behind these numbers are grieving families, frightened children, and entire communities shattered by violence.