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Are you ready for an adventure that will take you to one of the most historically rich and culturally diverse countries in the world? Turkey is calling your name!
Located between Europe and Asia, Turkey has been shaped by empires of the past, including the Greeks, Persians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. But today, Turkey is a modern country with a bustling economy, vibrant culture, and a thriving faith community.
While Turkey may be synonymous with Islam, there is so much more to discover. Did you know that only 0.5% of the population are Christian, and that believers face discrimination and even attacks? But don’t let that discourage you – there is hope, and you can be a part of it!
At OM, we offer opportunities for you to join the movement with our upcoming and reoccurring short-term missions or discipleship training trips. This outreach is all about promoting local churches and small church plants through evangelism and distribution alongside local partners in Turkey. You’ll have the chance to take the life-changing message of Salvation to the least reached in Turkey and use your gifts and testimonies to touch the hearts of those God has already prepared for you to encounter.
Or perhaps you’re interested in the REACH Silkroad program in Turkey and want to join us on a trip in early 2024. This 5-month discipleship program aims to connect participants with the least reached people groups in Turkey, while also providing opportunities for personal growth and spiritual development. You’ll learn biblical and proven skills to engage with Muslims and apply what you’ve learned in Turkey and potentially even other Muslim countries.
To help you prepare for your journey, we have provided a sample packing list that includes essential items. First on the list are must-haves, such as a Bible, pen, and journal to document your personal reflections, learning, and spiritual growth. It is important to stay hydrated, so we suggest packing a reusable water bottle that can be refilled along the way. A backpack or small duffel bag is crucial for carrying your personal belongings and any necessary supplies. To protect yourself from the sun, don’t forget to bring a hat or baseball cap, sunglasses, and an inexpensive watch. In case of unexpected situations, we recommend packing a flashlight and earplugs. Lastly, Ziploc bags in various sizes can be useful for storing snacks, electronics, or important documents. In terms of personal items, bring medications, bug spray, anti-bacterial hand sanitizer, sunscreen, sunburn medication and lotion, a quick-dry travel towel, washcloth, laundry bag, wet wipes, and personal snacks. And of course, don’t forget your spending money, comb or brush, contacts or glasses, razor and shaving cream, soap and shampoo, and toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss.
Remember that Turkey has a Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and mild winters. So, pack clothing that is conservative and respectful of local customs, particularly in more rural areas. This demonstrates a willingness to respect the local culture and customs and helps to build trust and establish rapport with the local people. Wearing clothing that is too revealing or flashy can be distracting and draw unwanted attention, and in some cases, even make you a target for harassment or violence.
Dressing conservatively is a way to avoid these distractions and contribute to your safety while on the trip. Pack dress clothes for church, work project clothes, other ministry clothes, a lightweight jacket, lightweight sleepwear, undergarments, swimwear, socks, closed-toe shoes or comfortable flats, dress shoes, and a universal power adapter. And if you’re planning on floor sleeping trips, bring an air mattress and pump, sheets, pillow, personal battery-operated fan with batteries, and a mosquito net.
So, what are you waiting for? Visit OM’s short-term mission page to find out more about these opportunities and other trips and apply today!