Çorum is an inland city in the Black Sea province of Turkey about 270 km (170 miles) from Samsun which is on the coast. The city has a population of 270,000. The church in the city continues to be a beacon to the people. It is open every day and many people, both Turks and refugees, call in to ask questions and chat.
Many Languages
Çorum is a small city by Turkish standards so it is surprising that it has a group of thriving churches. The Turkish fellowship has grown and now has its own pastor. People from different nationalities are coming to faith and being baptised.
The fellowship has 5 different languages being used in their 3 services, the Turkish congregation meets with the Persian speakers, the French with the English while the Arabic speakers meet by themselves. Translations are given during the combined services.
Many Visitors
The church building is on a busy road near the city centre and is open to anyone passing by. Not a day goes by without people from different nationalities calling in to ask if they can have ‘a look around.’ It is a great opportunity for the Christians there to answer questions.
The building is a focal point for people, believers and non-believers, to sit, chat, ask questions in a low pressure environment, drink tea, and even play table tennis! There are weekly Bible studies in all 5 languages and the church runs regular guitar and English classes to reach out to the community.