St. John Cathedral: Izmir

St. John Cathedral Catholic Church in İzmir, once ancient Smyrna, is one of the Seven Churches of Revelation (Revelation 1:11). Of the seven mentioned in the Book of Revelation, this is the last one still standing—a quiet, unassuming survivor amid the city’s bustle. Turkey is often called the forgotten Holy Land, and standing here, I could see why: the church community has lasted longer than most nations have existed. I stepped inside and the Gospel was open to the Book of John, a beautiful reminder of the history beneath my feet and the centuries of faith that had passed through these walls. The light fell softly on the worn pews, and I could almost feel the echoes of worshipers across time.

İzmir, Turkey
October 2025