Matlocks Return from Summer Trip
After serving in Turkey for 10 ½ years, Mike and Debbie Matlock just returned from a three-month visit. Their prayer is that they will be able to continue to travel once a year to maintain the relationships that they have established. Their mission is to support Pastor Kerem and the various ministries in which he is involved. This includes the local church as well as other ministries under the Reach Turkey umbrella, Via Christus and Acts29 Turkey. Mike serves on the board as treasurer of Via Christus, and Debbie is the bookkeeper for all of the ministries.
During their recent trip they were very busy. Kerem and family left for the US shortly after they arrived. Greg and family returned to the US for their first furlough three weeks after they arrived, leaving one of the leaders of the church in country. The Matlocks took over leading music during worship, allowing Mark to concentrate on the remainder of the service. Mike also read scripture passages during the worship service.
Mike attended several days of the Spring Academy session, during which he was able to interact with the students using a more advanced level of Turkish than he previously had. During the time in Turkey, Mike continued meeting with his Turkish teacher twice a week for two hours, but in person instead of on Zoom. Debbie contributed to the fellowship time after the service each week by baking or supplying fruit and vegetables for the meal. Her cookies and cakes were much appreciated!
Making an Impact
It is very comforting to Kerem and Buse to have Debbie keep the books to provide a level of accountability. The Matlocks say they also were reminded of how much they are loved by the members of the church, being mature believers to first-generation Christians. Mike, along with Ozgun, a young member of the church, presented the Gospel and answered questions from a 19-year-old Muslim student named Omer. Omer was encouraged to attend a Turkish-speaking church by a church in England that he attended during the spring semester. He responded positively to the Gospel message but was afraid to tell his parents. Mike and Ozgun introduced him to a new term, “Grace.” He said that he would continue to visit the church until he returns to university in England in the fall.
Redeemer Support & Prayer
The Matlocks say the financial support they have received from Redeemer throughout the years has allowed them to go to Turkey and serve. They are thankful for the support of both Redeemer and individuals, given through the designated account approved by the Session. Prayers are appreciated for both Mike and Debbie and the people they serve in Turkey. They are always happy to share with anyone interested in their work with the ministries in Turkey.
- Pray for continued good health for them to be able to travel each year to Turkey.
- Pray for a pastor for the local church
- Pray for these first-generation Christians, that they are able to withstand the difficulties of their faith
- Pray for the success of the Academy program, preparing and equipping current and future leaders.