Persecution of Christians in Europe
Europe is increasingly the front line in the clash of Islam and Western societal values. As Muslim populations migrate to Euopean countries, stress cracks are appearing as the secular authorities in these nations attempt to deal with irreconcilable differences.
One of the most recent examples of this stress has been the uproar arising from Switzerland's ban on minarets. The world ignores the burning of Christian churches in many Muslim countries while the Swiss restriction on mosque towers is lamented by the media as a lamentable sign of religious intolerance.
Persecution by Muslims in Europe is commonly directed toward those of their own community who hear the the Good News of Jesus Christ and want to leave the bondage of Islam. The alarming rise of Orwellian-named "honor killings" attest to the degree to which European Muslims seek to escape the darkness of Islam.
Prayers for persecuted Christians in Europe
Restrictions and Attacks in Turkey
Christians in TURKEY face continued difficulties. Missionaries have been expelled or denied re-entry under tightened visa regulations. A pastor was attacked on Easter weekend. Recently a church building was vandalized.
Ask God to encourage Christian workers. “We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.”
Believers Attacked, Threatened
A report released earlier this year documented attacks on Christians in TURKEY and said that some church leaders must live under police protection and some even need bodyguards. Believers have been beaten for sharing their faith, church members have been threatened, and church buildings attacked.
Pray that Christians in Turkey will persevere. “In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?”
Struggle of Turkish Christians
A recent report on persecution in Turkey describes a “root of intolerance” toward non-Islamic faiths. In some areas Turkish church leaders must “live under some sort of police protection.” The report adds, “There are at least five church leaders who have bodyguards, and at least two have a direct phone line to a police protection unit. Several churches have police protection during worship services.”
Children Face Harassment
Christian children in TURKEY often face harassment and vilification. One 8th-grade civics book characterizes “missionary activities” as a national threat. The Ministry of Education ignores requests to change this language.
Pray that young believers will stand firm in their faith. “When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.”
Learn More: Education in Turkey
Outreach to Kids in Turkey
One of our ministry partners in TURKEY reports that a recent program for kids went well. One of the kids asked, “Could you come and do an activity every week?” The Christian population of Turkey is less than 1% of the nation’s total population. Christian children in Turkey often feel isolated.
Ask God to help these kids to follow after Him. “Those who look to Him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.”
Waiting
Yousef Fallah Ranjbar, an Iranian Christian refugee seeking asylum in Turkey, has been waiting for years—first for his asylum case to be considered, and then for his attacker to be taken to court.
Asylum Seeker Mocked, Attacked
An Iranian believer from a Muslim background seeking asylum in TURKEY was mocked for his faith by an interviewer at the refugee agency. His employer said he had no rights, refused to give him his pay, beat him, and scalded him with hot water.
Ask God to provide for him and for other Iranian refugees like him. “The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of His heart for all generations.”
Faithful
Our ministry partner “Amir” and his wife “Ceyda” are faithful church planters and evangelists in Turkey. They have faced numerous threats and dangers, but have prayed about their fears and stand bold in their witness. They are truly a remarkable couple. Please pray for them during the most recent challenges that they face.
Ministry Partner in Danger
One of our ministry partners in TURKEY was awakened by people banging on his door in the night. The family called the police. Later they heard gunshots outside. They have previously received death threats.
Ask God to be their refuge and strength. “How precious is Your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.”
LEARN MORE: FAITHFUL
Courageous Evangelist in Turkey
The ministry partner in today’s prayer request is a dedicated church planter and evangelist who perseveres despite the very real dangers that he and his family face. His fears are real—but his faith is stronger. Thank you for praying for this courageous man and his family!