14/09/2026
On Saturday, September 12, Thimar-LSESD celebrated the retirement of its board of trustees chairman, Samir Abi Shedid.
Thimar held a retirement ceremony at Al Bustan Hotel in Beit Mery, Lebanon, which featured multiple speeches by Thimar and local evangelical leaders. The event offered an opportunity to reflect on the growth and accomplishments made under Shedid and to thank him for his 27 years of leadership.
“We give thanks to God, who used him as an instrument in His hand, blessed him, and through him blessed this mission and ministry over these many years,” said Zeina Abdallah, who is now serving as the chairwoman of Thimar’s board.
Under Shedid’s leadership, Thimar experienced tremendous growth and development. The number of employees doubled, as did the number of ministries. After initially taking over the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary (ABTS), Dar Manhal al Hayat (DMAH) publishing house, and Beirut Baptist School (BBS), Shedid oversaw the launch of three more ministries focused on relief and development (MERATH), church discipleship (Salt & Light), and special needs inclusive education (SKILD). Through these six ministries, Thimar has come alongside churches throughout the Middle East and North Africa, helping them to empower their communities and reflect the hope and love of the gospel.
“Samir, you have played a major role in shaping the history of this association (Thimar),” Rev. Charles Costa, President of the European Baptist Federation, said during the ceremony. “You wrote it silently, humbly, and with a sense of responsibility. We know that this legacy will remain for the glory of Christ forever.”
