Sümela monastery readies for fifth service

TRABZON – Anadolu Agency

A total of just 300 Orthodox Christians will be allowed to participate in the ceremony that will be held on Aug. 15.

The historic Sümela Monastery in the Black Sea province of Trabzon is preparing for a yearly service that will be held on Aug. 15.

Fener Greek Patriarch Bartholomew is expected to conduct the service, which is held in honor of the Assumption of Mary, a Christian feast that is marked on Aug. 15.

The Sümela Monastery, located in Altındere National Park, reopened for religious use on Aug. 15, 2010, after an 88-year hiatus.

A total of just 300 Orthodox Christians will be allowed to participate in the ceremony in accordance with the monastery yard’s capacity.

Gendarmerie forces will be responsible for the security of the monastery and the guests.

Trabzon Deputy Gov. Halil İbrahim Ertekin said they had held a meeting for the security and comfort of the guests who will attend the ceremony. Police and gendarmerie officers also participated in the meeting.

“The service at Sümela is a matter of prestige and honor for us and Trabzon. Trabzon is a city of culture and art. We are working for our guests to hold their service in peace and safety as part of our efforts for faith tourism. We hope our guests will return to their countries in peace after the ceremony on Aug. 15,” said Ertekin.