Erdogan calls altered status of Hagia Sophia a footstep toward Great Turkey
Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Photo: ria.ru
Changing the status of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is a footstep towards Great Turkey, while the opinion of other countries does not matter, President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan said, RIA Novosti reports.
“We made a decision to change the status of Hagia Sophia, based on the opinion of our people, rather than on what will be said about us,” Erdogan said, adding that the country will continue “to take the right path towards building a great and strong Turkey”.
As reported by the UOJ, on July 10, 2020, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed a decree on changing the status of Hagia Sophia and said that on July 24, the shrine would open as a mosque for Islamic worship.
Read also
Four Mt. Athos Monks Injured in Greece Highway Accident
Four Athonite monks were injured in a highway accident, with one remaining in critical condition.
Pskov Caves Monastery Marks 20 Years Since Elder John’s Repose
The Pskov Caves Monastery commemorates Archimandrite John, honoring his life of labor, prayer, and spiritual guidance for generations of Russian Orthodox faithful.
Patr. Theodoros II Leads Historic Ecumenical Service in Panama
Patr. Theodoros II visits Panama, joining Orthodox in an historic prayer service promoting Christian unity.
Cherkasy Metropolitan Denounces Politically Motivated Charges
Metr. Theodosiy calls his criminal case politically motivated, defending UOC rights and warning of potential ECHR implications.
Patr. Theophilos III Meets Diplomats to Address Holy Land Crises
Patr. Theophilos III warns of rising attacks and restricted worship, urging protection of Christian communities and humanitarian access in the Holy Land.
Attendance Low after UOC Cathedral Transferred to OCU
Only a handful of worshippers attend Chernihiv’s Trinity Cathedral since the OCU took control.