Yet Another Egypt Tragedy

Last Night...
...a wedding ceremony was supposed to lead to a festive reception, but as the bride and groom exited the church to the shouts and cheers of family, tragedy unfolded.  The shouts of joy and cheers were replaced by shouts of terror and tears as family and friends took cover while gunfire ripped through the crowd.  The result, four dead and many more injured as a gunmen fired into the crowd and fled the scene during the chaos.

While various political groups and religious leaders condemned the attack, others have taken to Twitter to share opinions, and reports from the wounded or from the funeral ceremony today.   Many tweets like this were visible this morning as people began the day...

         

And this reporter gave moment by moment tweets of the funeral before going to the hospital to visit with families of the wounded...

           

What's Going On?

Though the various demonstrations have grown smaller and the events of Egypt are not a top story in western media over the past month or two, there is still a lot of unrest, it is just showing up differently.  Demonstrations are no longer in mass at one location--and because of the continued curfew on Fridays set at 7pm, there are now multiple location demonstrations usually occurring on Sundays and Tuesdays.

The Pro-Morsi, the former President ousted in the first week of July, continues to receive the support of his Muslim Brotherhood and their political arm, the Freedom & Justice Party.  Various other "Islamist" parties and groups have created a National Coalition to Support Legitimacy.  These groups continue to protest, march and hold various types of demonstrations calling for the reinstatement of the suspended Constitution and the Presidency to Mohamed Morsi.  There are some big dates coming up that are expected to see a lot of passionate demonstration from this group:

• 22 October: The Brotherhood begins appeal of recent court decisions outlawing their NGO status and freezing their assets.

• 29 October: Trials of several high-profile MB leaders are planned to start.

• 4 November: The controversial trial of former President Mohamed Morsi is planned to begin at the North Cairo Criminal Court.

• 22 November: Marks the 100-day anniversary of the dispersal of pro-Morsi gatherings at Rabaa al-Adaweya mosque, which became violent and led to hundreds of deaths.

Meanwhile, the interim and acting government led by interim President Mansour (former head justice of the Supreme Constitutional Court), and backed by the Armed Forces under the leadership of General Sissi, continue to lead the country in decision making to reconstitute a new government.  That begins with a new Constitution, election and security law making, allowing the justice system and courts to operate, and trying to maintain security in torn country.  The Constitution commission is nearing completion of their work, there are new election and demonstration laws pending, the military continues to provide support to the Ministry of Interior while police forces find themselves subject to sporadic attacks, and the justice system has issued the most controversial steps in ruling against the constitutionality of the Muslim Brotherhood.  This latest development is still in an appeal process, but the assets are frozen and the interim government is already talking about routing all their assets and funds into the general fund of Egypt.

Because the interim government seems to be marching forward and not only ignoring the continual appeal of the demonstrators, but possibly also outlawing the leading Islamist group, some militant factions are beginning to take a more violent approach.  There have been two different RPG (rocket propelled grenade) attacks in Cairo -- one at a police station, and one at the satellite installation in Maadi.  There have been multiple bombs found along the Metro public transit line, as well as at other locations of importance--fortunately, these have been found and disarmed, or found and not working.  This is in addition to continued attacks in the Sinai at police check points and other interests.  These more radical groups are unpredictable for the moment, and apparently not yet that effective--but it only takes one "effective" attack to add to a tragedy-riddled country.

The Effects of Uncertainty...

...are beginning to take a toll on the Egyptian society.  A U.N. study released in September marked Egypt at 130 out of 156 in terms of "Happiness."  This excellent article presents the case for such a study, whether "happiness" can be measured collectively versus an individual emotion, etc.  

Though I agree that happiness is an individual emotion, and a largely fleeting one at that, the effects of society upon individuals can affect whether or not a person is or can attain happiness.  In the current environment in Egypt, over the past 3 years, two Presidents have been deposed, the economy has fallen dramatically, joblessness has risen, foreign investment and tourism have declined, confidence in politics wanes, demonstrations and unrest are weekly occurrences, thousands have died with countless sustaining injury, trust and distrust in military and police has risen and fallen like a yo-yo, and the and the perception of justice is not high.  How would you think such a place would affect your happiness?!?

There is not only the question of the effects on Egyptians now, but as this continues to play out for the next few years, what might that do a person, a generation, a national psyche?

We have also been partnering with churches in Lebanon, a country with its own share of a troubled history and divided population--though things continue to be much more stable there now, we are getting a greater sense of the effects of what a divided nation did to a generation who were children and grew up in the aftermath of discord.  We've been getting to know dozens of these over the past year, and we're noticing an inability to plan ahead, to have vision, to think about creating a foundation in the present for something more in the future--there is a resignation to uncertainty.  

Two examples from some "driven" young men that I met in Lebanon.  I met a young man who is studying and volunteering in his particular trade to grow in experience.  I asked him about what the next few years of school looked like, if he would go beyond volunteering to an internship, are there other hurdles in the process of becoming licensed, etc.  He began by saying, "ideally..." and listed some things, and then said, "but this is Lebanon, and I can't be sure what will happen next week--all of this could be put on hold or for nothing."

I asked another young man (who is busy in school for a master's degree, full-time work and various volunteer opportunities) what he was planning to do as far as a career--where was all of this activity leading?  He said (paraphrasing), "I don't know--I mean, I hope it leads somewhere, but I'm just taking it day to day for now.  I want to do something like this in the future, but I'm not sure where this is heading."

This isn't just a Middle Eastern experience--I think there is a sense of aimlessness and uncertainty among 18-35 year olds the world over--but I do think its effects are exacerbated here.  

And each tragedy, each bomb, each demonstration that leads to violence or abrupt change--all of it creates a frighteningly different worldview -- one that is not looking to go beyond and get better in the future, but a worldview that is much narrower, looking to just get by today.

"where there is no vision, the people perish" (KJV)

"where there is no prophetic vision, the people cast off restraint" (NIV)

"if people can't see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves" (The MESSAGE)

~ Proverbs 29:18

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Thank you for your continued interest, prayers and encouragement.

#PrayforEgypt

#PrayforLebanon

#PrayforSyria

#PrayforYouth

#3W

To and From Beirut

I flew back to Beirut last weekend, and now I am moments from boarding a plane back to Cairo.  I was just here a few weeks ago, so what was I doing back.

This brief trip represents a win-win-win situation.

During my last trip, I joined the Heart for Lebanon team in their annual staff retreat and participated in their efforts to develop a strategic plan.  This, as any organization will tell you, is a massive undertaking that requires a lot of collaboration and a lot of time just to come up with a rough plan.  Then, additional hours also have to be undertaken to comb through notes, clarifying statements, and preparing a finished product.  This work has begun through the efforts of senior leadership and one of the Lebanese Executive Board who directed the efforts on the retreat.  H4L asked me to come back and contribute over a few days to help prepare a finished product that could be shared with Lebanon and US Board of Directors for approval.  This invitation to come work with them for a couple of days was one "win" as it benefits an organization with whom we partner and see great Kingdom work.

When H4L asked if I would be willing to come back so quickly for this intensive project, I shared that I would need to be given equal opportunity to work with churches and leaders because that's a major component to our involvement in Lebanon.  H4L agreed to give me that opportunity--a second "win."  So I began the trip with Shukri and Kathia who help to direct the Ana Terzo ministry with a team of great young adults.  It was hoped that we could begin a regular training with these leaders for their own development and growth, as well as to encourage them in the development and growth of this vibrant, young adult ministry.  I was also to have several fellowship opportunities with a few leaders on an informal basis; one of these was Isa.  Isa is a great young leader who not only contributes to the Ana Terzo ministry and Youth for Christ, but he also plans and directs the Lebanese Church of God teen camp.  The teen camp saw 30 participants and Isa has a realistic estimate that the camp will grow to 50 next year.  Isa demonstrated tremendous leadership skill in selecting a team, creatively planning with that teen, creating a web-registration page, and leading a quality program.  Isa is one of four talented siblings who are Church of God PK's (pastor's kids) involved in ministries in Lebanon.  It was a joy to spend time encouraging Isa this week.

I will also spoke to the Ana Terzo weekly meeting on Saturday evening, which was followed by a fellowship meal with them, too.  The group included several that I knew from the camps, as well as friends they brought to meet me, including two Americans--a young woman from Texas who actually teaches English in Kuwait but who was visiting Beirut to use her "vacation" to serve in the literacy program with H4L; and another young woman who is involved in post-graduate studies in Beirut.   The conversations with all of these young adults is always deep and beneficial for all.

In addition to the Ana Terzo group, I was invited to preach again at the Sioufi Church of God on Sunday morning as their Pastor Bassem was away this weekend for seminary.  I spoke to the congregation about Pastor Appreciation, which is a theme embraced by many North American churches in the month of October, but which is not consistently practiced here.  I was so happy that it was received well by the congregation and I hope that it will lead to some practical encouragement and support for Pastor Bassem's family and their ministry.

By Sunday evening, I was be at the disposal of Heart for Lebanon, working diligently alongside some passionate and gifted Kingdom servants.  H4L paid for the airfare that brought me back for this special assignment--which is the third "win" because it alleviates cost upon our ministry budget which is largely supported by North American churches. 

During my time with H4L, I was able to share with and encourage their staff, which is an opportunity that I deeply enjoy.

So, now as I prepare to return to Cairo, we have a newly completed strategic plan for H4L, a church encouraged to strategically appreciate their pastor, and some young adults equipped to further their ministry plan.  

Now its is time to focus on the family a bit, but also to get back to the weekly CCF Kids ministry and CCF Sunday night worship.  I'll also start preparing for an upcoming Skype message to Alabama area young adults as they gather for a Night of Worship in Birmingham on November 2.  

There's a lot of good things happening -- thanks for your continued interest, support and prayers that help make it all possible!!! 

From Holiday to Holiday

Last weekend's 6th of October holiday went pretty much as expected: celebrations mixed with violence.  The day in honor of the Armed Forces got the mixed response as those in favor of the military's actions in July to remove President Mohamed Morsi were filling Tahrir Square and other places where the military was applauded as they put on aerial shows with fighter jets and helicopters.  Meanwhile, the security forces in Egypt were busy keeping routes to Tahrir and other meeting places secure, preventing pro-Morsi/anti-military marches from reaching those meeting points in order to prevent chaotic and violent confrontations that could erupt between the two groups of competing ideals.  The security forces (largely police) fired tear gas volleys, and even small caliber ammunition fire as these demonstration marches attempted to converge on various points throughout Egypt -- as a result, 53 people died and many more were injured, and many were arrested for either acting or attempting to incite violence.

There were also reports through Twitter on Sunday of journalists trying to cover the events of the clashes between marchers and security forces, either being arrested by security forces or beaten by the crowds--or both.  I've posted a sample of some of those tweets here.   I've read reports in other countries in which someone who was being beaten was actually taken into custody for their own protection, treated, and released--I'm sure there's also some questioning that takes place, but I'm sure anyone would prefer to be answering an interrogation rather than being beaten by a mob.

This pic appears in the linked news article describing
the video posted by the group who claim
responsibility for the attack (photo: AP)

The Monday after, October 7, saw attempted strategic attacks from militant groups.  Eight army officers were killed in two separate attacks further east near the Sinai canal and Sinai where ongoing attacks have been the norm; but the unexpected came with two RPGs (rocket-propelled grenade) fired at a large satellite dish in Maadi, the district south of Cairo where we live.  The large compound in Maadi hosts dozens of satellite dishes of various sizes which serve a variety of purposes from television to communications.  The militant group claiming responsibility posted a video on YouTube - you can see the video and read the description of its content at this news link - though a large black spot is visible on the dish (see picture here from the linked article), we have seen reported elsewhere that the hole created in the dish is only 25 centimeters!  This gives you an indication of how large and stout these enormous dishes are.

Though damage was caused, there was little to no disruption in the ability of the dish to perform its services; however, the unsettling fact remains that RPGs were used in Maadi.  This is not the first such attack in Cairo, as a police station was targeted in August.  There have been an ongoing discovery and disarmament of bombs throughout Cairo, most disturbingly along the Metro public transportation system--the military and police have been able to discover these and safely remove these without incident to this point.  Some in the Twittersphere have poorly joked that such failed explosive devices are actually a benefit of Egypt's recently reported poor education system.  The increased incidence of explosive devices and use of RPGs in Cairo is not being viewed as a laughing matter by the military and Ministry of Interior, and they have increased security at checkpoints on route to the international airport, and are considering increased measures at key tourist sites among other areas.

The weekly demonstrations have decreased in numbers, but are actually increasing in frequency.  It used to be that everyone could expect a demonstration after Friday prayers, but the curfew that began in July enabled the security forces to keep people from mass gatherings.  When the curfew was relaxed (after 11:00 pm each night, except for Fridays where it remains 7:00 pm), demonstrators simply changed their weekly protests to new days.  Sundays have become the new weekly day of protest, which has led to renewed interruption of our Sunday evening worship; but then, Tuesdays were also added as a day of protest.  Why Tuesdays?  Some think that it is because the January 25, 2011 Revolution was a Tuesday--and the demonstrators have been stating that their views are consistent with and the same fight as the original revolution that toppled Mubarak.

So, we've come through another eventful Sunday, and actually a rather quiet Tuesday compared to Monday's events.  So, what's next?

Eid is next, which means we're actually all in store for a break from the chaos and calamity of the past several weekends.  Last year, I wrote on the blog about this annual remembrance, feast and celebration of the Muslim's interpretation of Abraham being tested to sacrifice his son.  This is a unique and festive time in the Middle East and, as I said, we can all use the break from what has been happening, so it comes at a good time.

Thank you for your continuing interest and prayers.  We remain safe and continue to find joy in each day's service to this region.  We have now lived here more than 21 months and we look forward to many more, Lord willing, and with your help and encouragement.  

6th October

An old holiday becomes a new day of division

Egyptian Armed Forces crossed back into the
Sinai Peninsula on October 6, 1973.
(image found in Google image search) 

In 1973, Egyptian Armed Forces in a joint operation with the Syrian military, moved against Israeli positions that resulted from the Six-Day War in 1967 - this joint operation began on the 6th of October, which was also Yom Kippur and so the war that lasted until 25 October is also referred to as the Yom Kippur War.  (Side note: The tensions and land disputes that resulted from these two conflicts, as well as all that preceded and followed the events, would eventually culminate in the Camp David Peace Accords.)

The 1973 war began with the armed forces of Egypt crossing back into the Sinai Peninsula and was a day of great pride and respect for the military.  So the holiday of 6th of October is more in appreciation of the military, and is sometimes called "Armed Forces Day".

And that brief, and probably far too simplistic for accuracy, history of October 6, 1973 is what leads us to today - for though this day will lead many to enjoy a holiday, many in Egypt are also still quite angry at the military for their role in the events that have transpired in Egypt since June 30, especially the forced removal of ousted President Mohammed Morsi and the installation of the now interim government.  Further, the interim government, ministry of interior who oversees the police and security forces, and the military under the command of General Sisi are blamed by these same pro-Morsi groups for the ongoing arrests, "persecution", and dispersal of Muslim Brotherhood events.

So a day to honor the Armed Forces has also become a day to demonstrate against them.

Meanwhile, those who were a part of the largest political demonstration in history on June 30, organized by the Tamarod (Rebel) campaign, have a renewed sense of gratitude and appreciation of the Armed Forces--a renewal that was necessary after the brief leadership of the Supreme Command of the Armed Forces (SCAF) after the January 25, 2011 revolution.  That transitional period was an all-time low in the public's opinion of the military, but now, though it's a divided opinion, the military is in a much more favorable position.

The interim president has urged those who support the Armed Forces to take to the streets in affirmation.

And so the clash potential is high today, particularly around Tahrir Square where both groups are planning to meet and likely converge in more than just a war of words and ideals.

As a result, we're home again tonight rather than attempting to get beyond Tahrir for worship--the CCF decided that the risk of passing through potential demonstrators on their way into or away from worship could be difficult, if not dangerous.  So, the interruptions for our regular gatherings continue - 11 weeks off, 3 weeks on, 1 week off since June 30 :(.  The Metro lines are expected to see delays as people also use the stations as demonstration points, as well as the means that some will take to get to downtown gatherings; the US Embassy warned against the use of the Metro lines as they have been a target for potential violence in the last couple months.

As you enjoy your Sunday, pray for the peace of Egypt today as we wait and wonder what ripple effects will spring from today's events.

Thank you for your continued interest, prayers, and support...