Short-term Missions Trip
January Outreach 2011 - Winter in Istanbul (Turkey)
The purpose of the winter 2011 Global Challenge Teams is to help local churches in the NW region of Turkey, by carrying out coordinated public evangelism in areas near these churches.
Participants will be sent reading material beforehand to begin their preparations. The programme starts with a 2-day orientation in Istanbul. OM long-term staff and local church leaders will give seminars, workshops and motivational messages on topics such as basic Islamics, how to share your faith in a culturally appropriate way, basic Turkish, common objections to the Gospel in Turkey, Turkish culture, team life, prayer, boldness and creativity in evangelism, etc. Participants will pray and worship together and do team-building activities to prepare spiritually for the outreach.
Each day, participants will break into smaller teams (based on the skills and abilities of the participants--music, sports, drama, etc.) to do various kinds of outreach or practical service. Examples of planned outreaches include pantomime, playing music in public areas to attract passersby, sketch board evangelism, literature distribution, various forms of kindness evangelism, and practical work in the churches. The goal is to reach Turks for Christ with the hope of seeing them come to faith in Christ, join the church (with which we’re working) and be discipled. Approximately one day per week will be unscheduled so that participants can rest or visit tourist sites.
We are seeking Christians who have a heart to share their faith with Muslims. Individuals, couples and groups are welcome. If families with younger children and people with certain disabilities would like to participate, they should contact the organisers at
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to see whether special arrangements can be made. The minimum age for individuals is 18 years. Younger teens could be accepted as part of a family or group.
Experience and knowledge of Turkish are not necessary, though welcome. The training and team language will be in English, so at least a basic understanding of English is needed. People with special performance skills are also greatly appreciated.
Participants will be staying in churches, hostels or Christian guest houses.
All participants will usually prepare and eat breakfast and lunch together in their place of lodging. Since most outreach activities will last into the evening, participants will often eat their evening meals in restaurants or in people’s homes.
Participants will have to make their own way to and from Istanbul for the programme. We will arrange local transportation. Those travelling through many time zones should consider coming a day early to overcome the effects of jetlag. Participants may also wish to come early or depart later in order to visit some of the many interesting tourist sites in Turkey. Participants themselves (not Global Challenge Turkey) are responsible for planning and financing these additional activities. How to find us: Airport pick up in Istanbul will be arranged. You may arrive to either Ataturk or Sabiha Gokcen airports.
Good health and stamina are required for this outreach.
Visas are required for Turkey but most nationalities can purchase these at the airport upon entry.
Not for the fainthearted! It is COLD in Istanbul in January and probably wet as well!
