Antakya, Turkey (known in ancient times as “Antioch on the Orontes”) was where the followers of The Way were first called “Christians.” It was from here, 2000 years ago, that Barnabas and Saul were sent to share the Good News throughout the Roman world.
However, over the centuries, the light of the gospel faded in this city… until 1999, when Jesus, the Head of the Church, began a new work, once again establishing His Church in Antakya. Led by Turks, Christians began meeting in a small rented courtyard house. This gathering place also hosted children’s ministry, seminars, ladies’ meetings and other events. But the church soon outgrew the available space.
By God’s grace and with the generous support of His people through MSC, in 2022 something new began rising in Antakya. Land was purchased, plans were drawn up, and permission was granted to commence construction of one of the few purpose-built churches in Turkey – a place where the saints can gather, and a base from which they can fulfill the “good works” that God has prepared for them. These Christians envision the Church in Antakya and all eastern Turkey growing and sending forth brothers and sisters into the work of the Lord.
By the end of January 2023, the foundation and 3-storey concrete skeleton of the building were almost complete. However, on February 6, the earth shook, and the second-largest earthquake in Turkey’s history stopped all construction work. By God’s grace, the building stood firm. A careful government inspection in May resulted in approval to continue building. As construction resumed in July 2023, God provided funding and volunteers to work. We held a soft opening on Saturday 16 November 2024.
We began Sunday meetings in the building at 11am Istanbul time, from the 17th November onwards. There are still outstanding things to be finished, but the building is in use! Praise God with us.
Your prayers and participation in this strategic MSC project are welcome!