Some of the most meaningful conversations begin with an honest question.

That was true this summer when Near East School of Theology (NEST) welcomed AfterDark, the college and young adult ministry of nearby Resurrection Church, to its campus for an “Ask a PhD Anything” event.

The program brought dozens of young people between the ages of 18 and 22, ranging from “seekers” and young believers to more mature Christian youths of the church, to the NEST campus in the heart of Beirut, Lebanon.

The invitation was simple: ask any question. Nothing was off limits.

Paul’s words to the church in Corinth echo true in this heavy and uncertain moment as war once again casts a long shadow over the Middle East. Violence, fear, and instability have a way of affecting everyone – families, churches, ministries, and the most vulnerable in communities. No one remains untouched.

In such circumstances, it would be easy to despair and to give up hope. And yet, our partners throughout the Middle East are responding differently. Below is a brief update on our partners who find themselves in the midst of uncertainty and upheaval.

Under the leadership of its new president, Dr. Martin Accad, Near East School of Theology (NEST) has embarked on a new and promising chapter – one marked by hope and action.

Amid Lebanon’s ongoing economic and political instability, NEST persevered with remarkable resilience. During the violent conflict that shook the country between September 2024 and January 2025, the school kept its doors open and reached out in service to displaced families in the surrounding neighborhood.

The Near East School of Theology (NEST) is pleased to announce the election of Dr. Martin Accad as its 11th president, effective September 1, 2024. Dr. Accad brings a wealth of experience in theological education, interfaith dialogue, and leadership within the academic and socioreligious communities.