Though it was once the land of the seven churches of Revelation and of Paul’s journeys, Asia Minor has been described as the largest unevangelized country in the world. For over a millennia, Turkey was a Christian stronghold, but today it is 99 percent Muslim. The growth of those practicing Islam is characterized by the increasing number of women wearing Muslim head coverings and men bowing toward Mecca. Its people are known for their hospitality, but the vast majority cannot welcome Christ into their hearts because they’ve never heard the gospel.
The culture of Asia Minor is a colorful mosaic of the East and the West. However, the overwhelming Islamic majority and strong nationalism make establishing churches a difficult task. A deep resistance to Christianity is imbedded within Turkish culture and becoming a Christian is viewed as disgraceful and almost treasonous.
We praise God that despite increased persecution and hostility toward believers, the number of believers in Turkey has grown from an estimated 10 believers in 1960 to approximately 3,500 in 2011! Christar teams are establishing churches in Asia Minor. Some are making disciples among refugees from countries with very few believers and we’re excited that these disciples will take the good news with them, back to their home country or wherever they immigrate. Be a part of what God is doing in Asia Minor! Ask us how!