Today, it’s hard to learn about Jesus in the place that was home to much early Christian activity.
Türkiye may be a developed nation straddling Europe and Asia, but as the largest nation unreached with the gospel, it provides very little opportunity for children and teens to learn about Jesus. That’s why Pastor Izzet believes children’s summer Bible camps are so important. In addition to his church planting ministry, this FMI partner spearheaded three Bible camps in Türkiye and neighboring Bulgaria this year. The camps introduced children, often from Muslim homes, to Jesus. They provided discipleship for children and teens who knew Christ, and were crucial training grounds for young Christian leaders. As Izzet notes, there are very few Christian leadership training opportunities in Türkiye other than these camps.
One of the camps saw 13 children place their faith in Jesus Christ. When camp leaders invited any believers to renew their commitment to Christ, they saw more children and even adults come forward. Pastor Izzet said, “For the first time in 35 years, I invited the teachers to come forward as well. Because I thought they also needed to be refreshed and renewed” in their relationship with the Lord. A girl who prayed to receive Christ at another camp was asked by her mother, “Do you know what you did meant?” The young girl clearly explained to her mother how and why Jesus died for her sins, rose again, and saved her.
God is not stopped by challenges from getting his work accomplished. He is expanding his kingdom even while earthly and spiritual rulers oppose him. Time and time again in the Scriptures, the Lord answered these challenges by raising up people in specific times and places with a heart to serve the Lord and his people. Jesus is doing exactly that today through people like Pastor Izzet. In a country where Christian teaching is extremely difficult to find, he faithfully and creatively provides it to both children and adults. Your partnership with FMI empowers disciple-makers like Izzet to serve as a gardener tending a ministry that looks like a mustard seed. It may seem small and insignificant compared to the vast need surrounding it, but the long-term impact will prove disproportionately greater. Thank you for your gifts and prayers which water these tender seeds.
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