Trabzon, Trabzon Province, Turkey, August 25, 2025
Cumhuriyet
Turkish authorities once again denied permission for Orthodox Christians to celebrate the feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos at the historic Panagia Sumela Monastery in Trabzon on August 15, allowing services only on the Leavetaking of the feast nine days later.
Metropolitan Andreas of Saranta Ekklisies celebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Saturday, August 23. The service drew a limited number of pilgrims from Greece and other countries to the ancient monastery site in Pontus, reports Vima Orthodoxias.
This marks the second year in a row that Turkish authorities have refused permission for liturgical celebrations on the actual feast day of August 15, granting approval only for the secondary celebration on August 23. The restrictions have significantly reduced attendance at what has traditionally been a major religious gathering.
vimaorthodoxias.gr
Since 2010, Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople has maintained a tradition of celebrating the Dormition feast at Panagia Sumela, though permission from Turkish authorities has remained uncertain each year. The monastery, founded in the 4th century, holds particular significance for Pontic Greeks and Orthodox Christians worldwide.
The Greek Foreign Ministry noted that these liturgical celebrations carry diplomatic significance regarding religious freedom and the protection of cultural heritage sites. The Federation of Pontic Associations of Greece issued a statement affirming that “Panagia Sumela will forever remain the soul of Pontus, regardless of restrictions or prohibitions.”
The limitations on the celebration come amid reactions from nationalist groups within Turkey. Observers have characterized the authorities’ decision to permit only the Leavetaking service as an attempt to balance various domestic and international considerations.
Despite the reduced attendance and restricted timing, pilgrims who did attend were visibly moved by the opportunity to worship at the historic site.
Watch scenes from the Liturgy:
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