Easter Broadcasts Show “Church Still Present and Alive”

Easter celebrations in parts of the Middle East have been limited this year due to war and other tensions. But at a time when people across the region are in desperate need of hope, SAT-7 has broadcast uplifting services from Syria and Iraq to highlight the ongoing presence and resilience of the Church.

Filmed at churches in Damascus, the broadcasts from Syria included four Easter services and a special worship celebration night titled “He is Risen,” all featuring The Joy Choir.

From Iraq, SAT-7 ARABIC broadcast three Easter events from the historic Al-Tahira Church in Mosul. The church building was severely damaged by the so-called Islamic State militant group but has since undergone extensive renovation work as part of wider efforts to restore Iraq’s Christian heritage.

The broadcasts were coordinated by SAT-7 ARABIC’s Public Engagement Manager, Juliana Sfeir, who explained why they are so important for Christians in the region at this time.

“This production responds to a critical reality in Syria, Iraq, and the whole region,” she said. “Many believers are unable or afraid to attend church, and there is a strong need for visible representation of the local Church. As for SAT-7’s audiences, they are seeking belonging, biblical encouragement, and connection.

“The aim of this production is to carry the voice of the Syrian and Iraqi Church to the region, affirm that the Church is still present and alive, provide access to worship for those who cannot attend physically, and encourage spiritual engagement and discipleship.”

“Many believers are unable or afraid to attend church, and there is a strong need for visible representation of the local Church,” said Juliana Sfeir.

Attack on Christian Town

The significance of the broadcasts was heightened following an attack on the predominantly Christian town of Suqaylabiyah in Hama province, Syria, on March 27. Christian property was targeted in the violence, which caused widespread damage to homes, shops, and cars. Churches and Christian sites were attacked, and a statue of the Virgin Mary was reportedly destroyed.

The violence prompted the cancellation of many public Easter festivities in Syria, with most celebrations taking place inside church buildings.

Following the incident, Syrian Bishop Nicolas Baalbaki prayed for his country on the SAT-7 ARABIC program You Are Not Alone, asking for an end to violence and that Christians, along with all the Syrian people, may live in safety, peace, and stability.

Since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, members of the country’s minority groups, including Christians, Alawites, and Druze, have been subjected to attacks. In June 2025, at least 25 people were killed in a suicide attack on St. Elias Church in Dweila, Damascus.

SAT-7’s Easter broadcasts from Syria are part of the ministry’s long-term support for the Church and people of the country through many years of war and tension. “We aim to continue building bridges with the Church in Syria in preparation for a holistic rebuilding of the country,” Juliana added.