Turkey
New Zealand has a special relationship with Turkey because of the respect that was won between the Anzacs and Turks at the battle of Gallipoli in the World War I. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey called the fallen Anzacs Turkey's sons too because they are buried in Turkish soil.
In 2008 we took a school team to participate in the Anzac commemorations and explore the roots of our Christian heritage. Two-thirds of the New Testament was written to or from the land that is now known as Turkey. Yet, many Turks are unaware of the significance their land played in the formation of the early church.
Exploring the history and ruins of the beginnings of the church was interesting, but the highlight of the trip was meeting with the living church. While Turkey has a population of about 70 million people, only about 3000 of them are evangelical Christians. The Turkish church faces persecution, so for the safety of the Turkish believers we only have limited information available online.
To grow the Turkish church needs a strong foundation. As a fellowship, we are supporting and praying for a Kiwi family who are helping a fellowship in western Turkey with their administration and leadership skills.