Praise Points

Lord, we thank You for letting us know that Türkiye was once the heart of early Christianity. May the seeds sown by the apostles and martyrs continue to bear fruit among today’s Believers. “For from you the Word of the Lord has sounded forth… so that we do not need to say anything.” – 1 Thessalonians 1:8

Thank You, Father, that the light of Christ still burns in Türkiye despite centuries of oppression. Strengthen the faithful remnant who keep Your Name alive. “We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair.” – 2 Corinthians 4:8

Lord, we thank You for the new Believers and small churches courageously worshiping You across Türkiye. Let their faith and witness multiply across the land. “The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” – Acts 2:47

Prayer Points

Lord Jesus, bring healing and repentance for the violence and injustice committed against Christians. Let truth and peace triumph over hatred and nationalism. “He has sent Me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free.” – Luke 4:18

Father, open the doors of worship that have been closed by human authority. Protect pastors and Believers who meet secretly and strengthen their faith to stand firm. “The gates of Hades will not overcome it.” – Mark 16:18

Lord, sustain young Believers who stand alone in schools, homes, and communities. Give them courage to live boldly for You and assurance that they are never abandoned. “Be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.” – 2 Chronicles 15:7

A Call to Salvation

Lord, raise strong, Spirit-filled Turkish pastors and teachers to shepherd Your flock faithfully. May they disciple others and multiply workers for the harvest. “And what you have heard from me… entrust to faithful people who will be able to teach others also.” – 2 Timothy 2:2

Father, unite all Christians in Türkiye—Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant—in love and purpose. Let their unity be a powerful testimony to Your truth. “So that the world may believe that You have sent Me.” – John 17:21

Lord, help Christian families in Türkiye to teach their children faith in Jesus amid fear and opposition. May the next generation carry the Gospel flame through the land once called the cradle of Christianity. “One generation shall commend Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts.” – Psalm 145:4

Türkiye, historically known as Asia Minor, holds significant importance in Christian history, being home to ancient cities like Ephesus, Antioch, and Tarsus, where the Apostle Paul preached. Once part of the Byzantine Empire, it was a center for early Christian theology before Islam became dominant following the Ottoman conquest in the 15th century. Today, while Türkiye is officially secular, a strong Islamic identity influences its culture and society.

Christianity in Türkiye dates back to the apostles and encompassed the thriving Seven Churches of Revelation. However, centuries of Ottoman rule led to suppression, and events like the Armenian and Greek genocides devastated Christian populations, with fewer than 0.2% of citizens identifying as Christian today.

Christian teenagers in Türkiye face significant challenges, including social rejection, harassment, and legal obstacles to church operations. Converts from Islam often experience exclusion from their families and discrimination. The Church encounters threats from nationalism and Islamic extremism, and foreign pastors face deportation, isolating local congregations.

To reverse the decline of Christianity, believers must return to biblical teachings and strengthen family faith practices. By nurturing local leaders and fostering unity across denominations, Türkiye’s Christians can once again share the light of the Gospel in a land with a rich Christian heritage.

Praise Points

Growth of Underground Churches: Despite persecution, underground churches continue to grow, demonstrating the resilience of faith. Matthew 16:18

International Awareness: Increased global attention on North Korea’s human rights abuses has led to more support for persecuted Christians. Romans 12:15

Personal Transformations: Stories of individuals like Eun-Young, a defector who found faith in South Korea, inspire hope for the future. 2 Corinthians 5:17

Prayer Points

Intensified Persecution: The regime’s crackdown on religious activities poses a constant threat to believers. 2 Timothy 3:12

Isolation from the World: North Korea’s isolation limits the flow of support and resources to Christians. Matthew 5:14-16

Generational Disconnection: The younger generation’s detachment from faith traditions threatens the continuity of Christianity. Deuteronomy 6:6-7

A Call to Salvation

Pray Without Ceasing: Continually intercede for North Korean believers, asking God to strengthen and protect them. 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Advocate for Religious Freedom: Raise awareness about the plight of Christians in North Korea and advocate for their rights. Psalm 82:3-4

Christianity was introduced to Korea in the late 18th century. Catholicism arrived in 1784 through Yi Seung-hun, and Protestantism followed in 1864 via Suh Sang-ryun. Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, was once a vibrant center of Christian activity, earning the nickname “Jerusalem of the East.” However, after the Korean War and the establishment of a communist regime under Kim Il-sung, religious practices were severely restricted. The state promoted the “Juche” ideology, elevating the Kim family to a god-like status, and Christianity became associated with foreign imperialism, leading to its suppression.

Christianity in North Korea Today

Despite the oppressive environment, Christianity persists in North Korea, primarily through underground house churches. Believers often meet in secret, fearing severe punishment if discovered. The regime views Christianity as a threat to its authority, leading to extreme persecution of Christians. Reports indicate that defectors repatriated from China in 2023 were sent to political prison camps if they had any contact with Christianity.

Challenges Faced by North Korean Christian Teenagers

Christian teenagers in North Korea face unique challenges. Many are born into Christian families but must conceal their faith to avoid detection. The regime’s surveillance extends to schools, where students are indoctrinated with the state’s ideology and are encouraged to report any signs of religious activity. Teenagers discovered that practicing Christianity can face imprisonment, forced labor, or even execution.