Attack on Church Building in Samsun, Turkey

By Joseph DeCaro, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – Four Muslim men detained by police for attacking a church building in the Black Sea region of Turkey last week shouted jihadist slogans after they were released from custody.

According to Morning Star News, two Muslims went to the entrance of a building rented by the Agape Church Foundation in Samsun and tried to get someone to answer the door around midnight on Feb. 25. Two others later joined them and began banging on the door. When that didn’t get a response, they tried to kick it open. Eventually they gave up and left, but not before destroying a security camera that captured their images. Police later identified the suspects who all surrendered themselves on March 1, but were released the next day.

Although no one was injured in the incident, the church’s pastor reported it to the police because of its brazen nature.

“They attacked us knowing that they would get caught,” said Pastor Pıçaklar. “They even looked at the security camera and smiled. Later they went to the police and turned themselves in and today they were set free.

“Those who have attacked us and been caught have always apologized, and we have always forgiven them, because this is what God wants us to do. If we only say, ‘Forgive your enemies’ when we’re giving a sermon, we’re hypocrites. Those who attacked us this time are really different, however.”

Pıçaklar said last week’s attack caused him to really think about the anti-Christian persecution prevalent in Turkey.

“There is definitely sorrow in my heart as I wonder: ‘Why do these people attack God’s house? We’re not enemies. We only pray for their blessing.’ But there is no bitterness, because Satan has blinded their eyes. If they weren’t blind, they would see the Light and be saved. I really feel sorry for them, and if I had the chance to see them, I’d tell them how God loves them — and to read the New Testament…”

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