On Sunday, June 1, 2025, members of Syrian Christians USA were invited by Chelsea First United Methodist Church in Chelsea, Michigan, to give a public presentation on Syria as part of their Super Sunday Speaker Series. The event featured guest speaker Yasser Ashkar, Executive Director of SYRIAWISE and an active member of Syrian Christians USA. It drew attendees from the local community and members of the church congregation for an evening of testimony, reflection, and communal engagement.
The lecture, titled “Between Two Flags: A Tale of Freedom, Fear, and Resistance,” offered a deeply personal and historical perspective on Syria’s struggle for freedom. Ashkar spoke candidly about growing up under the Assad regime—both father and son—sharing vivid memories from his childhood and teenage years in Aleppo. His testimony shed light on the decades-long repression faced by Syrians and the ongoing atrocities committed by the regime before and after the 2011 uprising.
Ashkar‘s speech was both informative and emotional, connecting Syria’s modern tragedy to universal themes of resilience, resistance, and hope. He emphasized the importance of remembering the human stories behind the headlines and underscored the urgency of international solidarity with the Syrian people. After his talk, he offered books about Syria for those interested in further understanding the country’s history and current plight.
The event also featured remarks by Mirna Barq, President of Syrian Christians USA, warmly introduced by the moderator, Laura Damschroder. In her address, Barq shared memories of her childhood in Damascus before highlighting key moments of the Syrian uprising and sharing powerful stories of courage and sacrifice. In response to questions from the audience, she reflected on the future of Syria, expressing a cautious optimism while acknowledging the many challenges ahead.
Following the formal program, attendees gathered for a communal dinner, which began with a blessing from the church’s pastor. The shared meal provided an opportunity for dialogue and fellowship among participants, reinforcing the spirit of unity and compassion that defined the evening.
The collaboration between Chelsea First United Methodist Church and Syrian Christians USA exemplifies the vital role of faith communities in promoting awareness, empathy, and advocacy for justice. As Syria continues to endure the consequences of dictatorship and displacement, events like this serve as meaningful reminders that the story of Syria is not forgotten—and that its people continue to seek peace and dignity.
Mirna Barq spoke about the Syrian uprising and the people’s resilience.
Yasser Ashkar offered a detailed explanation of Syria’s geographical position, highlighting its strategic location within the Middle East and its historical and political significance on the regional map.
