Major Military Escalation in Lebanon Won’t Stop Christian Television

BEIRUT, LEBANON (ANS) -- Despite the almost constant bombing of Beirut by Israeli planes, as they step up their offensive to free two Israeli soldiers seized by Hezbollah, Christian satellite television organization SAT-7's office in Beirut remains undamaged.

International CEO Terry Ascott said the toll can already be seen psychologically. The SAT-7 staff continues to broadcast the message of hope and peace, but "a cloud of depression is settling over Lebanon. The sounds of explosions rattle the streets, bringing back memories of the sectarian violence that plagued the region for nearly two decades," Ascott said.

"I would ask prayer for all the Christians in Lebanon," said Ascott, "that they would be beacons of light and hope and optimism, that they wouldn't be caught up in the national gloom, and that the love and the peace of Christ that is in their hearts would radiate through."

The strikes took out power stations, leaving much of the community without electricity, as well as air conditioners, refrigerators, or televisions. "The Lebanese are quite resourceful," Ascott said. "They have seen this before during 20 years of civil war and disturbances. Many of the areas do have backup generators so they can keep essential appliances working, and television is one of the essential appliances."

As their teams keep programming running, Ascott said, "We do ask for all supporters of SAT-7 to pray for the stability of Lebanon and the safety of our staff and operations."

SAT-7 can be viewed via satellite in the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and much of Central Asia. Programming can also be watched worldwide at www.SAT7.org. Through locally-produced Arabic children's programming, talk shows, teaching programs, music, serial dramas, and documentaries, SAT-7 provides large audiences with a unique opportunity to hear an accurate presentation of Christian truths in their own language through programming created by their own people. Launched in 1996, SAT-7 is an Arabic Christian television service by and for the people of the Middle East and North Africa, and has its U.S. headquarters in Easton, Md.

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