In the Sumela Monastery, one of the important faith centers in Türkiye, the ritual, which is considered as the “Ascension day of the Virgin Mary” in the Christian world and performed by Christian Orthodox, was held under the direction of Fener Rum (Greek) Patriarch Bartholomew.
Prayers and hymns were sung by the clergy during the ritual, which lasted about 3 hours. Fener Greek Patriarch Bartholomew, in his speech at the end of the service, said that they are very grateful and happy to be in Sümela Monastery again. Stating that the Sumela Monastery has been standing tall for centuries despite the harsh climatic conditions, Bartholomew said, “It is a great blessing of God for us to be able to commemorate the Virgin Mary, to offer our prayers and to seek refuge in her intercession at the Sumela Monastery. “It is a special and important day as much as it is a special and important day. Before this holiday, which is celebrated as the ascension day of the Virgin Mary, we fast for 15 days, pray and spend a period in a strong faith journey.” he said.
More information about the event: Sumela Monastery
