02/21/2019 Turkey (International Christian Concern) –  The Taksim Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Istanbul has reopened after solving years of problems that resulted from Turkey’s confusing and complicated church laws.

This church building was constructed in 1958 and recognized locally as a house of prayer. However, because Turkey did not recognize the denomination at the time, the property was registered under the name of a foreign worker. When the foreign worker died, controversy resulted regarding ownership of the property and a potential sale. The church was not recognized as the lawful registered owner of the property until October 2018. The church was reopened after a short period of renovation on February 16, 2019.

Today, the denomination is recognized by Turkey, but most protestant denominations are not. They are forced to face similar risks and challenges. Many are not even recognized locally. Churches are forced to register as associations or foundations, rather than receiving official recognition as a house of prayer and worship. While the challenges facing the Taksim Adventist Church is now resolved, the system which created those challenges continues. Unless this is addressed, other churches in Turkey are vulnerable to facing similar issues.

For interviews with Claire Evans, ICC’s Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: [email protected].