Turk, Meskhetian in Russia
Photo Source:
Cem Ahiska - Wikimedia
Creative Commons
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| People Name: | Turk, Meskhetian |
| Country: | Russia |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 79,000 |
| World Population: | 305,700 |
| Primary Language: | Russian |
| Primary Religion: | Islam |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Online Audio NT: | No |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Turkish |
| Affinity Bloc: | Turkic Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Meskhetian Turks are a Turkish-speaking people who are originally from a part of southern Georgia that borders with Turkey. However, under Stalin's policies during the Soviet Union, the Meskhetian Turks were forcefully deported to Central Asia, where they experienced discrimination and civil rights abuse. When they were finally permitted to return to their homeland, Georgia did not allow them to resettle there. Those who remained in Russia also experienced severe discrimination and harassment.
Where Are they Located?
The majority of Meskhetian Turks live in the Autonomous Republic of Kabardino Balkaria, the Rostov region and the Krasnodar territory of southern Russia.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Meskhetian Turks are Sunni Muslims, but as a result of their perpetual exile and the influence of the Soviet Union, many of them are not strict adherents of Islam. Many of their traditions contain a mixture of Muslim, Caucasian and Russian elements. Family ties are very important to the Meskhetian Turks, and has played a crucial role in preserving their culture through their displacement.
Prayer Points
Pray for God to bring healing and hope to the hearts of the Meskhetian Turks, who have been in physical and spiritual exile.
Ask God to raise up ambassadors for Christ who are both trustworthy and loving to share Christ with the Meskhetian Turks who are living in Russia.
Pray that the Meskhetian Turks would know the truth and saving power of Jesus Christ.
Pray that the few Meskhetian Turk believers would be a shining light for Christ to their family members and relatives.
Pray that the Meskhetian Turks' citizenship would be in heaven.