Christians can be deported from the country because of their faith.
bottom“We are faced with systematic pressure targeting Protestant churches.”
– Timur, Istanbul Protestant Church Foundation Chair
Christians experience incredible pressure from increasing religious nationalism. The government continues to target Christians, even foreign believers, who are likely to be deported. All Christians have limited access to state employment and experience discrimination in private employment.
It’s not technically illegal for Muslims to convert to Christianity, but any Muslim who does decide to follow Jesus comes under immense strain from their families and communities.
All Christians are under pressure in Turkey, but converts from Islam are certainly the most vulnerable, along with Christian refugees from countries like Iran, Iraq, and Syria. The persecution against converts from Islam is greatest in the rural areas of Turkey.
Christians in more historical Christian traditions—groups like the Armenian and Assyrian churches—face higher pressure and hostility in Turkey’s southeastern region.
– Pray for Christians as they live, work, and worship in a place that doesn’t seem to want them.
– Pray that Christians would be able to work without facing discrimination.
– Ask God to strengthen the ministry of our local partners to vulnerable refugee communities.
