Adyghe of Turkey

Adyghe of Turkey Once, the Adyghe (Circassians) were the main ethnic group in northwest Caucasus; however, this drastically changed under the pressure of the Russian conquest, and especially after the defeat of the Great Revolt (1825-1864), when a Circassian mass exodus took place. This exodus was called 'one of the greatest mass movements of population in modern history.' Circassians moved to Turkey and other areas of the Ottoman Empire, including the Middle East. One and a half million Circassians abandoned their ancient homeland, leaving behind scattered remnant communities. Many Circassians were Christianized under Georgian and Byzantine influence in the 6th century. However, under the growing influence of the Ottomans, Islam gradually replaced Christianity. Ministry Obstacles Access to the Adyghe people in Turkey is restricted. Outreach Ideas Christian television, radio and websites can provide good access to these people. Pray for availability, and that the Adyghe people will find these avenues of communication. Pray for the followers of Christ There are very few Christian believers among the Adyghe people of Turkey, and they live in an area that is hostile to a Christian presence. As the Lord begins to build His church among these people, pray they will live without fear and be filled with the Lord's Spirit. Pray for the entire people group The re-migration of the Circassians to the Caucasus is a new phenomenon and is continuing. Pray for peace in the troubled Caucasus region. Scripture Focus "Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; and let them say among the nations, 'The Lord reigns.'" 1 Chronicles 16:31		People Name: Adyghe Country: Turkey 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 313,000 World Population: 646,000 Language: Adyghe Primary Religion: Islam Bible: New Testament Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1