SHINING CHRIST’S LIGHT AMID POLITICAL TURMOIL
As the political upheaval in Turkey creates uncertainty for many, SAT-7 TÜRK is on hand to encourage and strengthen its viewers of all backgrounds.
Christians in Turkey are requesting fervent prayer for their country amid the ongoing tense political climate. The state of emergency declared following the failed coup of 15 July has been extended until mid-January 2017. Following the attempted coup, 80,000 civil servants, more than 2,000 of them judges or prosecutors, were suspended from their jobs. More than 20,000 people were arrested.
CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES AFFECTED
Although the initial impact on Christians was minor, the Association of Protestant Churches (TEK) has said that Turkey’s Christian communities are now being increasingly affected. Several expatriate Christians are facing deportation or have been refused entry to the country.
These developments are worrying for local Christian communities who are often regarded with suspicion by their neighbours. Tamar Karasu, Executive Secretary of the Bible Society in Turkey, comments,
“The need for prayer never lessens in countries where Christians are in a minority and prejudices remain more influential than true understanding.”
A MESSAGE OF LIFE AND HOPE
SAT-7 TÜRK aims to help viewers gain a true understanding of the Christian faith. Broadcasting Manager Gökhan Talas explains:
“An important part of our work is to show Turkish people that Christianity is not a threat to the country: it has been here for 2,000 years. Our message is one of life and hope.”
Another SAT-7 TÜRK spokesperson adds,
“The beauty and mystery of God give us hope and joy. Many other channels dramatise the tension and violence, which spreads fear. SAT-7 TÜRK speaks of Christian hope. We are an alternative.”