News by email Donate

Suggestions

Turkish-church-main_article_image.jpg
Creative Commons / Darwinek
World News

Bishop thanks Turkey government for improved security

Bishop Ruben Tierrablanca Gonzalez, apostolic vicar of Istanbul, is speaking after a car bomb killed four and injured 11 in Izmir on January 1 and an attack in an Istanbul nightclub left 39 dead.

He told Catholic New Service: "All churches have been given police guards since a coup was attempted last July, and security officials have shown great kindness to us.

"Christians, Muslims and Jews are talking together and sharing the same anxieties, although the future doesn't depend on us."

Bishop Gonzalez added that imams and Muslim community leaders regularly attend Catholic services and take part in interfaith events.

He said the church had accomplished "many positive achievements" in Turkey, including its ecumenical links, charity work and support for Middle East refugees.

"Despite its problems, our country is no more dangerous than many others - the challenge is only from a few small groups and individuals," Bishop Gonzalez said.

"Since Muslims form the majority here, it's natural the government is pro-Islam. But this poses no problem and doesn't prevent Catholics and Muslims from working together."

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate