Gajal in Türkiye (Turkey)

Are the Gajals related to nomadic Gypsies? Some historical records suggest this. Other information suggests they were pre-Ottoman Empire (begun in the 14th Century) people in Bulgaria. Over time, they migrated into western Turkey. Gajal history is rooted in their ethnic values and unique language and culture. While they primarily speak the Turkish language, little is known about their current activities.

Ministry Obstacles
Ministering to the Gajal in Turkey will require more knowledge about their cultural barriers and how they operate within a shared community. We know they are Sunni Muslims, so they follow regular Islamic practices: Mohammed is the final prophet, one must utter the shahada statement of belief, pray five times a day facing Mecca, give alms, and observe Ramadan. Changing their works-based faith would require a major change in their spiritual worldview.

Scripture Focus
"The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him."  Nahum 1:7

Scripture Prayer
Pray that this people group takes refuge in the Lord.

Prayer Focus
Pray for spiritual breakthroughs in signs and wonders (perhaps more visions and dreams included) to help them see Jesus as he is. Pray for Christians to come in from the outside who know how to create open dialogue about faith, start Bible studies, and multiply house church communities in the Turkish language. Pray for sensitive workers to explain how our faith is not "foreign" to them.

Presented by Joshua Project
www.joshuaproject.net