Sister Carolin Tahhan Fachakh

Carol has remained in Damascus throughout the war. She has put her life at risk to serve the people in this war-torn country and remains a beacon of hope. The nursery school she runs establishes a safe and friendly environment for more than 200 children, Muslim as well as Christian, many of whom have been traumatized by the events of the war. The tailoring workshop, a United Nations Human Rights Council program she manages, provides a much-needed supportive community to vulnerable internally displaced women. The women receive an income and a job prospect, as well as support for everyday needs. The first year, there were 14 pupils, today there are over 100, both Muslim and Christian. Many of them have fled from other parts of Syria and have lost everything. At the end of the year-long training, participants have two choices: they can start working at home with a sewing machine provided by the school, selling their own creations or they can seek employment in the school workshop and earn a salary. Sales profits help the school to buy food for needy families, including some of the pupils and their own families, and to pay for rent, medication, and hospital fees as needed. Sister Carol explains, “We sisters help everyone, giving our all and without making distinctions between Christian and Muslim, following Jesus’ example. Our work is also aided by volunteers and Muslim partners, good and generous people who work with such dedication. We feel deeply respected by them as well as by the entire population, including the army.”