Cypriots, Turkish in United Kingdom

Introduction / History

The Turkish Cypriot people in the UK consists of descendants of Turkish people originally from Cyprus, or modern-day immigrants from the Eastern Mediterranean island. Turkish Cypriots began to relocate to UK in the 1920s when residents of Cyprus became subjects of the Crown, and later immigrated to UK during 1950s and 1960s for economic advantages, education, and to escape the political problems of Cyprus.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Cypriots in the UK continue to maintain their sense of community and hard work. They strive for involvement in British life while maintaining their Cypriot identity and culture. However, because of the common language, Cypriots have lots of social contact with Turks from Turkey. Many young Turkish Cypriots today choose to remain in UK after completing their education. These younger Turkish Cypriots are much more acculturated to British ways than their parents or grandparents. For example, the younger generation has concocted a language where English and Turkish are blended together.
Turkish language media is easily available in England. They have newspapers, radio and TV stations.
Turkish Cypriots are struggling in a number of ways. There are problems with domestic abuse and suicide which need to be addressed. The role of women is changing, especially for the younger, more Anglicized population.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Turkish Cypriots maintain strong allegiance to their historic faith which doesn't leave room for a savior. Few are willing to listen to the blessed gospel. They are nominally Sunni Muslim, believing in one god (Allah), and an eternal heaven and hell. "Sunni," is derived from the Islamic term, sunnah, which means "well-trodden path." Sunnis believe that the correct path is that of the majority. Therefore, the tradition of the Sunni is political conformism, though the Turks have been more flexible than many of their Muslim neighbors. Other Turks are more secular in their beliefs, though they visit the mosque for special events. Some also hold to pre-Islamic beliefs as well. For example, some believe that men have the power to curse others by giving them the "evil eye."

What Are Their Needs?

The Bible, Christian radio broadcasts, and the JESUS Film are all available in the Turkish language and English, yet Turkish Cypriots in the UK are completely Muslim. Turkish Cypriots need much prayer and disciples of Jesus living among them so they will know that when they die, it is not how they live, but who lives inside of them that will allow them entrance into heaven.

Prayer Points

Pray for the fervent believers to reach out in faith and love to the Muslim Turks among them. Pray for a spiritual hunger among Turks that will be satisfied by none other than the only Savior, Jesus Christ. Pray for a Disciple Making Movement among Turks to spread far and wide throughout Europe.

Text Source:   Joshua Project