The Lost Christians of Turkey
A vibrant community with a rich history
In the heart of Turkey, a country with a predominantly Muslim population, there exists a thriving community of Protestant Christians. Numbering between 70,000 and 80,000 adherents, this community has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the early days of Christianity.
Two of the five centers of Christianity, Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) and Antioch (modern-day Antakya), were located in Turkey. In the early centuries of the faith, there were between 3 and 4 million Christians in what is now Turkey, making up around 20 percent of the total population.
A testament to Turkey's religious diversity
Today, Christianity in Turkey is a vibrant and diverse community. There are churches representing a wide range of denominations, including Evangelical, Pentecostal, and Reformed. The community is also actively involved in social outreach programs, providing support to the poor and needy.
As Turkey continues to evolve and embrace its religious and cultural diversity, the story of Christianity in Turkey remains an integral part of the nation's heritage. It is a testament to the country's rich history of religious and cultural exchange, and a reminder that faith can flourish in even the most unexpected places.
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