The Eparchial Synod of the Church of Crete refers in very strong terms to the decision to convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque, describing it as “provocative and divisive”.
The Cretan Hierarchs express their sorrow at the event by “utterly” condemning this action.
“Hagia Sophia calls on all people of the 21st century to form true communion, to engage in fruitful dialogue and to have substantial mutual respect,” as stated in the announcement, with the Hierarchs of Crete expressing their support for the Ecumenical Patriarch.
It is also highlighted that “Hagia Sophia is not ‘erased’ or ‘written off’! Hagia Sophia stands firm and is an eloquent proof of its ecumenical spirit, course and contribution, as it has been the heavenly and earthly center of the Orthodox Ecumene for about a millennium. Hagia Sophia calls on all people of the 21st century to form true communion, to engage in fruitful dialogue and to have substantial mutual respect
The Church of Crete declaring its staunchest support for the Ecumenical Patriarchate and His Wise Helmsman, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch, Bartholomew, by looking forward to a decision to overturn this unfair and defamatory decision, and to the restoration based on truthfulness, mutual respect and History.”