“It’s marked by a blend of resilience and fatigue,” said Lubat, who is a member of the World Council of Churches (WCC) central committee, as well as a member of the WCC Gender Justice Reference Group.

“Every morning, I step into what feels like a once vibrant city rich in history, now lacking life, where silence weighs heavily on the atmosphere,” she said. “As a young Greek Orthodox Christian woman, I navigate a complex landscape, balancing my faith with the realities of living in a region marked by tension and witnessing the exhaustion and weariness of the people around me.”

It’s challenging to see her city so diminished and lifeless, she reflected. “It’s heartbreaking to watch my neighbors and friends struggle to maintain hope amid the uncertainty, yet it motivates me to stay engaged and active,” she said. “This backdrop fuels my commitment to fostering positivity among those who remain.”

Her work with the WCC and, more recently, with the Red Cross as an information management administrative assistant, serves as a beacon of hope. 

“The hope for a better future drives me to be a voice for my community and to connect with others who share similar aspirations,” she said. “Every small effort matters, and through my work and interactions, I aim to remind those around me that even in these trying times, there is strength in our shared experiences and dreams because everything is ultimately by God's grace.”

Addressing gender justice

Being a Christian woman from Jerusalem—and part of the Greek Orthodox community—Lubat’s perspective on gender justice is deeply influenced by living in a region where cultural expectations often constrain women's roles. “I've seen both the struggles and the resilience of women striving for equality,” she said. “I’m proud to represent my church at the central committee of the World Council of Churches as the only woman, which reflects my church's commitment to valuing women's roles.”

Her experience on the WCC central committee has shown her firsthand how important it is for faith communities to foster inclusive spaces where women's voices are not only heard but actively valued.

“It's also crucial for churches to engage with their communities, offering support for women's empowerment initiatives and creating platforms for dialogue,” she said. “My hope is that faith communities can lead by example, showing that gender justice is not just a social issue but a fundamental aspect of our faith.”

From Lubat’s perspective, ecumenism is more important than ever. 

“As we face global challenges such as inequality, conflict, and environmental crises, it’s crucial for different Christian traditions to come together in solidarity and cooperation,” she said. “In my experience representing the Greek Orthodox Church of Jerusalem at the World Council of Churches, I’ve seen how diverse perspectives enrich our collective understanding of faith and justice.”

She believes ecumenism allows us to pool our resources and strengths, addressing issues like gender justice and social inequality more effectively.

“Moreover, in regions like mine, where cultural, political, and religious divides often exacerbate tensions, ecumenical efforts can foster dialogue and understanding among different communities,” she said. “By working together, we can promote peace, advocate for a more just society, and ensure that the status quo is preserved and respected, as it plays a vital role in maintaining harmony.”

She asks for prayers for her people in the Middle East, who face many uncertainties and hardships. “It’s crucial that we come together in support of one another, and your prayers can help uplift those who are suffering—whether from conflict, economic struggles, or social injustices,” she said. “Additionally, I would appreciate prayers for all those around the world who are experiencing pain and suffering.”