By Peter Wooding, European Bureau Chief for the ASSIST News Service

CAIRO, EGYPT (ANS – April 19, 2016) -- Despite the threat of government protests, thousands of people went to hear Dr. Michael Youssef preach at Kasr el Dobara Church in Cairo, Egypt, this past weekend, with hundreds of people giving their lives to Christ during this three-day evangelistic event.

Dr. Youssef, founder of global outreach ministry Leading The Way, was born in Egypt, and he returned to Kasr el Dobara Church, the largest evangelical church in Egypt, with the hope of encouraging a spiritual renewal there.

During the first evening of the event, a heavy military presence was outside the church bracing themselves for government protests in Tahrir Square following a recent government decision. However, throughout the weekend, approximately 5,000 people still came to hear Dr. Youssef preach a Gospel message on salvation in Christ and victory over sin and addiction, with millions more watching live via satellite television. At least 500 people responded to Dr. Youssef’s clear invitation to salvation.

“Over the last five years, the people of Egypt have seen extreme civil unrest unfold in their country,” Dr. Youssef said. “Since 2011, the nation has endured tumultuous events—the bloody uprisings of the Arab Spring and two presidents overthrown. This church—and many more across Egypt—began crying out to God 24 hours a day to bring peace and justice to their nation. In many ways, God answered their prayers.

“By God’s grace, I pray this event will serve to fan the flame of spiritual revival that is already occurring in this region.”

As Leading The Way with Dr. Michael Youssef continues to reach the Muslim world for Christ through 24/7 Biblical programming, personal discipleship, and practical help for persecuted Christians in the region, many are responding to the Gospel message even in the midst of political upheaval and global crises.

To learn more about Leading The Way’s ministry work in the Muslim world, please visit http://www.ltw.org.

You can also follow Dr. Michael Youssef on Twitter at: @MichaelAYoussef

About Leading The Way:

Now celebrating over 25 years of ministry, Leading The Way's television and radio programs are broadcast to more than 190 countries in 24 languages. Leading The Way also produces DVDs, CDs, books, a monthly devotional magazine, and daily e-devotionals to spread the light of Christ. This Atlanta-based organization partners internationally with in-country follow-up teams to encourage new believers in their faith, helping God's Kingdom to grow around the world.

About Dr. Michael Youssef:

Michael Youssef, Ph.D., is the Founder and President of Leading The Way with Dr.. Michael Youssef. Dr. Youssef was born in Egypt and lived in Lebanon and Australia before moving to the United States. In 1984, he fulfilled his childhood dream of becoming an American citizen. He holds degrees from Moore College in Sydney, Australia, and from Fuller Theological Seminary in California. In 1984, he earned a Ph.D. in social anthropology from Emory University.

He has authored more than 30 books, including popular titles like The Leadership Style of Jesus and Blindsided: The Radical Islamic Conquest. He and his wife reside in Atlanta and have four grown children and seven grandchildren.

Editor’s Note: For media enquiries, please contact Peter Wooding by phone at +44 7500 903067 or by e-mail at peter@peterwoodingproductions.com .

Photo captions: 1) Dr. Michael Youssef preaching during the three-day evangelistic event in Cairo. 2) Among the hundreds who stood in response to Dr Youssef's Gospel appeal. 3) Those who responded being prayed for. 4) Peter Wooding filming in London.