First Islamic prayer sounds in Orthodox Chora Monastery in Istanbul
Ancient frescoes of the Chora Monastery in Istanbul. Photo: ertnews.gr
On May 6, 2024, the ancient Byzantine Orthodox Monastery of Chora in Istanbul, Turkey, officially became a mosque, as reported by ertnews.gr.
During a ceremony marking the completion of the "restoration" of architectural monuments in Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated that the country's authorities "pay close attention to protecting the cultural heritage of the nation."
In response, the Mufti of Istanbul, Safi Arpagius, mentioned that the Chora Monastery is "being restored and reopened to Muslim believers after 79 years."
At that moment, the President of Turkey ordered to cut the ribbon at the monastery's door: "You have scissors in your hands, and the ribbon is in front of you. Let's all say 'for Allah' together and cut the ribbon. Good luck!"
Afterwards, the first Islamic prayer was performed inside the Orthodox church in the Monastery of Chora.
Earlier, the UOJ reported that Erdogan would participate in the first prayer at the Chora Monastery.
Read also
Constantinople hierarch: UOJ engages in propaganda journalism in defense of UOC
Archbishop Elpidophoros accuses the Union of Orthodox Journalists of "Russian propaganda" without providing a single fact.
Phanar’s Archdiocese in U.S. tried to derail meetings held in defense of UOC
A leaked letter from Archbishop Elpidophoros to Patriarch Bartholomew has revealed that while Orthodox Christians were seeking protection for the UOC in Washington, the Phanar was coordinating a campaign to sabotage their meetings with American politicians.
EXCLUSIVE: Abp Elpidophoros’ letter to Pat Bartholomew on defending UOC in US
Archbishop Elpidophoros reports to Patriarch Bartholomew on his efforts to derail actions by Orthodox clergy and faithful in the United States in defense of the UOC.
Zelensky awards chief rabbi "for the defense of the country"
At the celebration of Moshe Asman’s anniversary, representatives of the Presidential Office and the Territorial Defense Forces presented the rabbi with state awards and read out a message from Zelensky.
Gates foundation allocates $1 billion to promote abortion in Africa and Asia
Bill Gates and other private donors will direct funds to organizations seeking to legalize abortion and change laws in countries with traditional values.
Kosovo to enact law restricting Serbian Church, experts say
Analysts warn that the new "Law on Foreigners" in Kosovo could restrict the presence of clergy, believers' access to shrines, and increase pressure on the Serbian community.