From Despair to Hope: A Syrian Mother’s Journey in Jordan
Names, locations, and images have been changed to protect the identity of individuals in sensitive regions.
A decade after fleeing civil war, a Syrian mother living as a refugee in Jordan encountered healing, community, and the love of Christ. Her story reveals the quiet power of local churches reaching the unreached—one life at a time.
A Church Among Refugees
In a northern town in Jordan, Compel International is working closely with a local church to bring hope and transformation to Syrian refugees—many of whom come from Muslim backgrounds. This partnership reflects the heart of Compel’s mission: to equip indigenous churches to reach unreached people right in their own communities.
Rana’s Story: A Journey Through Loss and Longing
One particularly inspiring story is that of Rana, a Syrian mother of four. After fleeing Syria more than ten years ago, she found herself in Jordan as a single mother, raising her two daughters and two sons amidst the daily struggles of refugee life.
Over the years, Rana built a relationship with leaders at the local partner church. What began as visits for support and friendship eventually led her into deeper spiritual conversations and an invitation to learn about Jesus.
“I used to come just for help,” she said. “But something made me keep coming back—peace, kindness, something I hadn’t known before.”
From Discovery to Decision
Coming from a Muslim background, Rana’s journey to faith in Christ was not easy—but it was deeply personal. Through Discovery Bible Study (DBS) gatherings hosted by the church, she began learning about God’s story—from creation to redemption through Jesus.
After many months of exploring Scripture, asking questions, and praying, Rana made the courageous decision to follow Jesus—not just as a prophet, but as her Lord and Savior. It was a profound spiritual turning point that reshaped her life and her identity.
Healing That Builds Faith
During one of the church team’s visits, Rana shared that she had been suffering from severe kidney pain after an injury. She couldn’t afford medical care. Moved by compassion, the team prayed for her and gently laid hands on the area in pain.
“I felt warmth—and then the pain just left. I was shocked. I knew it was Jesus who healed me.”
This healing encounter not only strengthened her faith but became a powerful testimony to those around her.
TRANSFORMATIONAL Ministry in Action
Compel International equips local churches to use an integrated ministry approach—blending spiritual discipleship with practical skills training. In informal home groups, participants learn about health, hygiene, parenting, and income generation. These gatherings create safe, welcoming spaces for refugees to build community and explore faith without pressure.
This kind of ministry is especially effective in Muslim contexts, where trust must be earned slowly and spiritual discovery must be allowed to unfold naturally.
Ongoing Transformation
Today, Rana continues to walk with Christ and connect with her church community. Her children are beginning to ask questions about the Bible, and her home has become a place of peace and witness.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Through stories like Rana’s, we see how God’s Spirit is moving—even in places of displacement and despair. Compel International remains committed to standing with local believers in Jordan and beyond, helping them bring healing, hope, and the Gospel where it’s needed most.