The recent desecration of the Orthodox Cemetery of Saint Eleftherios in Tatavla (Kurtuluş), Constantinople, has sparked significant concern and condemnation from various quarters.
Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, in a statement posted on X, highlighted the urgent need for religious tolerance and respect, urging for the protection of the Greek minority and calling on authorities to uphold the sanctity of all sacred sites.
“The desecration of the Orthodox Cemetery of St. Eleftherios in Tatavla (Kurtuluş), Istanbul, is a stark reminder of the need for religious tolerance & respect. We ask for the Greek minority’s protection and call on authorities to ensure the sanctity of all sacred sites is upheld,” the Archbishop posted.
The desecration of the Orthodox Cemetery of St. Eleftherios in Tatavla (Kurtuluş), Istanbul, is a stark reminder of the need for religious tolerance & respect. We ask for the Greek minority’s protection and call on authorities to ensure the sanctity of all sacred sites is upheld.
— Elpidophoros (@Elpidophoros) August 25, 2024
Turkish police have arrested four individuals in connection with the desecration of the Greek Orthodox cemetery in Constantinople, which serves the Tatavla community in the Kurtuluş district. The incident occurred early last Friday morning when cemetery staff discovered a six-meter pit illegally excavated within the fenced-off area. Although no graves or the cemetery chapel were damaged, the intrusion has deeply disturbed the local community.
The Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate have strongly condemned the vandalism at Saint Eleftherios Cemetery, describing it as an attack not only on the cemetery but also on a significant cultural heritage and religious tradition. They emphasized that this act of desecration and hatred is a direct affront to the Greek Orthodox community of Constantinople and reflects a disturbing disregard for religious freedom.
In addition, the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned the incident, joining calls for increased protection of sacred sites and respect for religious communities. The authorities are being urged to take appropriate action to ensure that such acts of vandalism do not go unpunished and that the sanctity of all religious sites is preserved.
