The Leavetaking (Apodosis) of the Dormition of the Theotokos was commemorated at the historic Monastery of Panagia Soumela in Trabzon, Turkey. Nationalist circles oppose the mass almost every year. This year, the mass was postponed to August 23. The mass was held without the participation of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomeos.
The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Metropolitan Stefanos of Kallioupolis and Madytos. In his homily, Metropolitan Stefanos emphasized the importance of prayers for peace and solidarity across the world. He also expressed his gratitude to the Minister of Culture and Tourism, the Governor of Trabzon, and the Mayor for their support in facilitating the event.
Since 2010, masses have been held at the Monastery of Panagia Soumela.Nationalist circles oppose the mass almost every year. This year, the mass was postponed to August 23. The mass was held without the participation of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomeos.Vehicles were not allowed to cross the road from Maçka to the monastery after 08:00 due to the mass, and visitors other than those who were coming to Soumela were not allowed. Visitors who came to the entrance of the monastery were allowed in under control with entrance cards issued by the Trabzon Governor's Office.
While nearly 50 Orthodox Christians from Greece and Georgia attended the mass, it was observed that the participation was low compared to previous years. At the end of the mass, the participants were blessed and bread and wine were shared.
As in previous years, far-right circles had threatened to prevent the mass before this year's mass.
