Peter Batchelor

The way in which I was able to observe the history, politics, culture, geography and religion constantly intersecting with each other. This continues to throw up questions about Turkey's strategic importance and the prominent role it may play in world politics in the future. The hospitality of our hosts and the way in which we were cared for so carefully and with great thought. Visiting Haran was a great highlight to see the foundation of the monotheistic faiths. Gallipoli was extremely provocative as we viewed it from the perspective of the Turkish young people. The rapid mixture of Istanbul was a breath of life. With those we met I found a generosity of spirit and a firmness of purpose. We encountered a resilience and a determination to make life work. I was impressed by the industry of people in the cities and in the country. They work hard to preserve and expand life. The sense of community was impressive as we encountered families and individuals pursing their lives with a sense of purpose and determination. The relaxed nature of our speedy amble through Turkey exposed the diversity of traditions, layers of history and present where people are endeavouring to understand their lives in rapidly changing circumstances. And yet there is a depth of history and faith which remains unshakeable. Cordial relations in the midst of historic pain was impressive and suggested that things work themselves out through pleasantness, openness and discussion. The people are committed to their faith in a strong way. The opportunity for daily prayers is taken up with seriousness on a daily basis. And yet there is a realism that modernity is offering other ways of living life which must be thought through. The young people we talked with seemed less willing to adopt old ways and it will be interesting to see how faith and practice develop. I had read some of the information about Gulen and the movement before I went to Turkey. I was impressed by the commitment to dialogue. I found the experience both helpful in understanding and yet obscuring at the same time. It seems as if the movement is committed towards dialogue but I could not understand its relationship to the politics of the country. I was impressed by the strength of the movement financially and through its off shoot organisation. I was also impressed by the commitment of significant people to the movement. I was not sure where the Inter Faith Pilgrimage fitted with the aspirations of the organisation. We moved very fast over a lot of territory and experiences. I would have valued some more time for discussion with young people at schools and with some of the theologians. Particularly in relation to building networks between the young people of the two countries. I will look forward to developing that idea with your organisation.