Turkey

Strategically located between Europe and Asia, Turkey is facing significant politcal, social and religious challenges. But God is at work!

Today Christian history is being reborn in this nation of 74 million people -- 70% of whom are under the age of 30.  About 20 years ago the first evangelical churches began to form, and since then a small, brave, growing church of Muslim background believers has emerged -- living in the land and realities of the book of Acts.

April 18, 2007 is the latest watershed date for Turkey.  It was on that day that 3 Christian brothers were burtally murdered by Turkish nationalists motivated by radical Islam.  These crimes got the attention of world leaders, and the subsequent trial has uncovered a conspiracy made up of government, military, police and nationalists who have been responsible for other murders and deaths.

But God is shining His light in the darkness.  As the book of Revelations tells us, the blood of the martyrs is the foundation of the church.  The 3,000 or so believers in Turkey continue to humbly and faithfully transform a society and focus the global church on the authentic life of Jesus and his followers.

The history of the church in Turkey is being written today, and since 1985 City of Grace has been part of that history by walking alongside our brothers and sisters in this historic nation. By sending short-term teams, supporting Christian workers, and providing support for strategic Turkish ministries God has enabled us to strengthen and encourage the church and become involved in initiatives that have resulted in the expansion of the influence of the Gospel. 

Currently City of Grace is working in Turkey in three major areas.

  • Together with the Turkish Evangelical Alliance we are developing church and Christian business leaders that will build the foundation for the vision of 50,000 Turkish believers in the next few years.
  • Together with local churches we are supporting mercy ministries that are often the first witness of Christ many Turks experience.
  • Together with the International Turkey Network (ITN) we are encouraging a global prayer movement for the nation of Turkey.

2008 will provide several opportunties to be involved in Turkey.  Contact the Outreach office for the dates and times of Global Adventures, Grace Turkey Fellowship meetings and other avenues for involvement.