The Yoruk have traditionally been semi-nomadic shepherds. For hundreds of years, at the beginning of every summer, the Yoruk made the long trek from the hot coastal plains to summer in the cool prairies and grassy highlands of the western Toros Mountains. But today they have largely become settled. They are made up of a large number of patrilineal tribes, which are often subdivided into clans. The Yoruk have retained their skill in weaving wool into colorful clothing. Their religion “has deep Shamanistic roots,” but today most are Sunni or Alevi Muslims.

Ministry Obstacles: Turkey is generally hostile to overt Christian witness. There are a few Yoruk in the Balkan countries, and these may have easier access to the gospel than those in Turkey.

Scripture Focus: "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."
- James 4:8

Prayer Focus: Pray that God draws this people group to Himself. Pray that their hearts are purified and become completely devoted to Him. Pray the Yoruk, especially the young people, will be able to adjust to the Turkish society around them. There may be no followers of Jesus Christ among the Yoruk of Turkey at this time. If there are a few, they need our prayers. Pray for the many Yoruk who in the future will become disciples of Jesus. It's not too early to pray for them to become zealous, deeply committed disciples. Pray that they would see the importance of education, which would increase their abilities to benefit from Christian written resources.