Armenian Mission by Z. G. Baharian

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Apr 30, 1914

Armenian Mission

By Z. G. Baharian

Z. G. BAHARIAN

After our general meeting in Ovajrik, Nicomedia, it was decided that Brother Touzjian, our worker in Malatia, should return by way of Kaisery, visiting scattered companies on his way. He spent a few days in Gueron also, and was invited to preach in the Congregational church. Gueron is at the southern end of the province of Sivas, and contains about 12,500 Armenians, 500 of whom are Protestants and 2,500 Moslems. Brother Touzjian wrote me about the little interest awakened, and I at once sent my coworker and colporteur, Brother M. Ashikian, to that place. He was successful in selling "Steps to Christ," and tracts on the present truth. At the same time doors were opened to him to hold Bible studies in the homes. Soon a gentleman and a lady took their stand for the truth, and this caused much agitation. Armenian priests began working to bring the man back. Finding their efforts vain, they forbade the people to have any intercourse with him.

Seeing so many doors open, Brother Ashikian called me. I responded at once, traveling four days on horseback through snow-covered mountains. I arrived on December 26, and was glad to see these two souls rejoicing in the truth. Soon the wife of our brother was also encouraged to obey. This increased the threats of the Armenians. We began holding Bible studies in the homes of these believers. Protestants were warned against us. But God opened the home of an aged Protestant, and in it we held meetings every night, and his neighbors showed a good interest. Two other women are at the point of decision.

Satan is not sleeping. One day Brother Ashikian was returning from the house of our brother, where he had gone to hold a Bible study, when a young man attacked him and beat him. Several children also cast snowballs, and women swore at him. His thumb was severely hurt. The chief of the police investigated the case, and told him that these Armenians would kill him but for the government. At present we are continuing our labors, depending upon the Mighty One of Israel.

The school children always run after us with blasphemous utterances, without being rebuked by older ones. Armenians always complain about the persecutions from Kurds, but in turn they do worse to us. We ask the prayers of the people of God. Let them know that this new door was opened while they were unitedly praying during the week of prayer.

Gueron.