Fikret Böcek is a WSC graduate and he is planting a Reformed congregation in Izmir (Smyrna), Turkey. This is an amazing development and cause for continued prayer and praise. One of the seven letters to the churches (Rev 2:7-11) was directed to the church at Smyrna. In about 93 or 94 AD, under the direction of our Lord, John wrote:

“‘I know your tribulation and your poverty ( but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.’”

Fikret writes:

Dear Friends,

We thank our God for the recently completed renovation work on the newly purchased church building of Izmir Protestan Kilisesi! Pleasecome celebrate the opening with us.

Our 350m2 building is near Alsancak city center, on the eighth floor of a business center. We completed the renovation work in a short amount of time, and have been worshipping in our new building for the past six weeks.

We will have our official opening this Saturday, May 16, 2009 at 4 PM. We would love to see you there to celebrate this huge step with us.

Date: May 16, 2009, Saturday
Time: 4 PM
Place: Atatürk Caddesi No:398, D:802, K:8 Dalyan Gümrük İş Merkezi Alsancak Izmir (Next to the Migros at the Port, across from the Alsancak Police Station, Above the University prep school called FINAL Dersanesi)