Monir and Salam both have a rich Christian heritage, even though they come from a part of the world not typically thought of for its Christian influence. Mori grew up south of Cairo, Egypt, attending Sunday School and church events since he was a small boy. His faith became personal to him when he was a teenager. Salam was raised in a Christian home in Beirut, Lebanon. A Sunday School teacher engaged her heart and mind in a gospel presentation as a young girl and she invited Christ to be her Savior.

As young adults, Monir and Salam both became very involved in ministry. Salam worked in Christian radio in Lebanon and Cyprus, writing programs and handling correspondence with listeners. She also translated Christian books from English to Arabic. Monir began singing at an early age, and developed a ministry of leading worship in churches, conferences and special evangelistic events around the world. Their paths crossed in Cyprus; as their friendship blossomed they desired to serve God together.

The Michaels will serve in a creative assignment to help reach Arab people for Christ. Monir will have an international evangelistic ministry, using his musical talents to help churches host outreach festivals to attract many new people. They also will have a web counseling ministry among Arabs, and will train North American churches to reach their Muslim neighbors.