A Christian charity working in Iraq is helping refugees returning to their ruined homes to begin a new life there.
Leading the Way, founded by Dr Michael Youssef, is running a programme entitled Help the Persecuted to assist those who might have lost everything.
The war against Islamic State in Iraq has officially been declared over, but the damage done by the terrorist militia is enormous.
Many returned refugees are living in burned-out houses with practically no resources.
When they walk through the doors of where they once lived, their floors are strewn with broken glass and family photos, walls are burned black and full of holes with dust everywhere. Then, in the middle of an ash heap are the charred remains of their Bibles.
One refugee said: 'The first shock came when we ran away from ISIS. But the biggest shock was when I came back home and found it like this. It was the worst thing I have ever seen.'
Teams in Iraq, Syria and Jordan are providing vital aid and planting churches.
Describing life in Bartella, formerly in ISIS' control, Youssef said: 'After a lengthy occupation, liberation has finally arrived with the defeat of ISIS in the region. Life is slowly coming back to the city, but as refugees make the journey home, they are returning to rubble. ISIS knew very well how to steal, kill, and destroy – and they have left most of the city uninhabitable.'
He concluded: 'What ISIS meant for evil, God has used for good. Many of these refugees came to faith through our broadcasts and field teams during the crisis. Others received practical support through the ministry of Help The Persecuted. Now, they desperately need the encouragement, hope, and restoration that is found only in the Gospel.'
