Faith Facts

• Christian compassion calls us to support the vulnerable, especially those suffering from diseases like leprosy.
• Challenges in Sri Lanka highlight the importance of faith-driven action amid adversity.
• Community efforts aligned with biblical stewardship improve lives and restore dignity.

The Leprosy Mission applauds global leaders at COP30 for focusing on the intersection of health and climate. Peter Waddup, the charity’s chief executive, notes that the effects of changing weather patterns are already harming communities in Sri Lanka.

Drought, floods, and high temperatures have created food and water shortages. These hardships are made worse by ongoing economic and social crises.

Poor harvests deepen poverty and malnutrition, weakening resistance to diseases such as leprosy. The mission discovered 846 new leprosy cases from 2022 to 2024, underscoring the need for urgent action.

Waddup said, “We’re seeing the direct impact of climate change on health. In the communities where we work, the crisis is not imminent—it’s already a daily reality.”

Innovative solutions like ‘climate smart’ farming, nutrition classes, and seed banks help families build resilience. These initiatives reflect Christian values of stewardship and caring for all neighbors.

Waddup adds, “Communities like those we serve in Sri Lanka are too often overlooked in global climate strategies.”

“They’re excluded from climate-related disaster planning and underrepresented in policy discussions.”

“But they are the ones suffering most. Climate change is driving them deeper into poverty. We need governments to act faster and more boldly. The team in Sri Lanka is proving what’s possible with modest investment and shared knowledge.”

As Christians, we are called to stand with the suffering and work faithfully for justice and mercy. Let us pray for wisdom and action as we uplift those in need.

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Faith Facts

• Christian Aid reports a surge in refugees arriving in South Sudan, including those returning after years away.
• The recent massacre in El Fasher, Sudan, has contributed to the growing humanitarian crisis in South Sudan.
• Christian ministries are overwhelmed, calling for prayer, support, and urgent action to protect vulnerable lives.

Conflict in Sudan has driven countless families to seek refuge in neighboring countries, with South Sudan witnessing a major influx. Christian leaders warn these developments stretch humanitarian resources and test our resolve to care for “the least of these.”

James Wani, Country Director of Christian Aid in South Sudan, described the situation: “It’s actually over one million returnees and refugees who have made it to South Sudan since the start of the conflict.”

Attacks in El Fasher forced thousands to flee, adding to the world’s largest displacement crisis. United Nations data reveals over 11 million are displaced, leaving Christian ministries to step in and meet immediate needs.

Wani highlighted the strain, stating: “Our transit facility is hosting around 12,000 people. This is a facility meant to host around 4,000. So it’s really overflowing.”

Resources are scarce, with pressing concerns for shelter, food, and the protection of vulnerable women and children. Faith-based aid organizations are rallying believers to pray for South Sudan and support efforts to bring relief and hope amid hardship.

Wani appealed, “We really ask all people of goodwill to stand in solidarity with South Sudan, pray for us, and where possible, extend whatever material support they can so that we will be able to address the challenges of food insecurity, shelter issues, protection challenges, access to clean water, and support for inward transportation.”

As Christian ministries distribute aid and raise awareness about the unique dangers faced by women and children, believers are reminded to stand firm in faith and compassion. Together, we can support those in crisis, extend Christ’s love, and defend human dignity.

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Faith Facts

• Keith Harris, a seasoned preaching minister from Texas, has been named the new president of Freed-Hardeman University.
• Harris brings a strong background in Christian service, succeeding President David Shannon, who has led since 2017.
• The Harris family’s commitment to faith and education reflects Freed-Hardeman’s enduring mission.

Freed-Hardeman University in Tennessee has appointed Keith Harris as its 17th president during a period of record enrollment and continued Christian growth. Harris’s ministry career and dedication to faith-filled leadership set a clear direction for the university’s future.

Harris steps into this vital role with experience serving the Lewisville Church of Christ and a heart for Christian education. His strong foundation in ministry and communication equips him to guide the university in serving students, families, and the church community.

“Dr. Harris’s profound experience in ministry, coupled with his comprehensive skill set in communication, interpersonal relations and leadership, made him a great choice to advance FHU’s mission and goals.”

— Scott E. Latham, FHU board of trustees chairman

Harris’s own family is deeply rooted in the university, with his son, Kade, studying Bible at FHU and his daughter Zoe set to join as a freshman. This mirrors the university’s mission to foster Christian families and faithful service.

“I believe Freed-Hardeman is a special place with a rich history and a unique opportunity to continue being a light for students, families and churches.”

— Keith Harris

As President Shannon plans his transition, the FHU community honors his dedicated leadership. Harris is committed to continuing this legacy, advancing the university with integrity, faith, and a heart for service.

FFR encourages our readers to pray for strong, faithful leadership at Christian institutions like Freed-Hardeman, where biblical values flourish and the next generation is equipped for Godly service.

Read the full story at The Christian Chronicle