Christian converts forced to hide their faith in Turkey refugee camps, ministry leader reports
A ministry director based in Turkish camps said that although some refugees are opening up to Christianity they still face many challenges. Refugees who convert to Christianity in Turkey are left with no choice but to keep their new faith a secret from others to avoid being treated like "infidels."
"We have earned the trust of refugees, they just are very pleased to welcome us to their tents," the director said in an interview with Christian Post. He noted that non-Muslims are not usually well-received but the refugees living in difficult conditions are glad for their help.
The ministry director said that he has witnessed more than 120 conversions in the past two years. He and the other ministry workers reported seeing changes in the way the refugees perceive Jesus.
"In Turkey, Muslims say the words, Hazreti Isa to express that Jesus was a prophet - they have in mind the meaning, 'Prophet Jesus,'" he told Christian Aid Mission.
"But now the refugees are saying 'Jesus Christ' like us, instead of Prophet Jesus. Praise God that seeds are beginning to take root. In every tent, when we talk about Jesus, we are seeing this change when we translate. They say and use these words more often," the director continued.
His ministry provides medicine, vitamins and clean water to 3,500 refugees in unofficial camps in southern Turkey. The aid group also gives sugar, wheat, rice, oil and milk formula to the widows at the camp.
Ministry workers are trying to disseminate Arabic Bibles in the camp. Bible-based coloring books are also being handed out to children.
The ministry director said that the failed coup attempt in Turkey last July has taken away the attention from the refugee crisis which meant that the ministry has to work much harder to help the displaced Syrians.
Last Thursday, the European Union granted 348 million euros to the U.N. World Food Program for Syrian refugees in Turkey. The money was part of a three billion euro fund that the E.U. promised to Turkey for taking in refugees that are originally bound for other parts of Europe.
