Turkish Government charges Andrew Brunson for being connected to the Fetullah Gulen movement
Andrew Brunson is an American Pastor of the Izmir Resurrection Church, who has lived in Turkey for 23 years. He was arrested on the 16th of October 2017, along with his wife Norine, who was released after 13 days. Initially, he was charged with being a member of the Gulen Movement, and later accused of being involved in the attempted coup of 2016 to overthrow the Turkish government. He was also accused of supporting the banned Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).
According to Slate, “The case against Brunson is reportedly based on the testimony of an undisclosed witness, though reports vary as to what exactly the witness alleges. In one version, Brunson attended a Gulenist event. In another, he spoke positively once about relations between Christians and the movement.” According to sources, some testimonies include Brunson being involved in the attempt to overthrow the Turkish government and was positioned as an American spy to gather information for the CIA. Brunson continues to deny any involvement in terrorist activities.
On the contrary, all of the accusations carry no solid proof of his involvement with any group. A letter signed by 78 members of the US Congress stated, “There appears to be no evidence to substantiate the charges against him for membership in an armed terrorist organization.” Many believe these charges have been put forward because of his faith.
Andrew Brunson is scheduled to attend court on the 16th of April 2018 for his hearing.
Prayer Points (Adopted from Middle East Concern)
- That the Lord will strengthen Andrew, and that he and his family will know God’s peace and presence.
- That the Turkish court will uphold justice and reject the allegations of Andrew’s involvement in outlawed terrorist or political groups.
- That the Lord will give Andrew’s Turkish lawyer wisdom as he prepares to defend his client
- Andrew will be released soon and that those responsible for his imprisonment will repent of their actions.
Aimee
IDOP Desk