Turkish President laid a foundation stone for new church since 1923
It’s happening in Turkey, a Muslim majority country’s president Recep Tayyip Erdogan laid a foundation stone in Istanbul Suburb of Yesilkoy yesterday. This is really a big news for the Christians in Turkey as well as to all the christian brotherhood because, this will be the first new church built in Turkey since the nation became a Republic in 1923.
Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the ceremony stated that, “This Country, This State belongs to everyone. It is the Turkish republic’s duty to meet the need for space to worship for the Syriac community, who are ancient children of this geography.” He also added, “Anyone who is contributing and is loyal to the country will be treated as first class citizen. There are no barriers to anyone in politics, trade or any other area.”
President, Erdogan had a negative impact in the past when we talk about religious freedom. Because, last year, Erdogan’s government got a very bad remark for detaining of American pastor Andrew Brunson under allegations that he has contacts with terrorist groups. Later, Pastor Brunson, who lived in Turkey for 20 years freed returned to USA after a huge demand from Trump’s administration.
The church will be constructed in the Istanbul neighborhood of Yesilkoy, located in Bakirkoy municipality. This new decision will definitely gain a very good attention towards Turkey and its Government. The church was expected to be completed in Two Years and this church will be serving for around 17,000 believers.
