Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew swiftly responded to the recent armed attack during the Sunday Catholic mass at the Catholic Church of Santa Maria Vathyryakos (Büyükdere). Upon receiving the distressing news, he promptly reached out to Roman Catholic Bishop Massimiliano Palinuro in Constantinople via phone.
In a heartfelt conversation, the Ecumenical Patriarch conveyed his unwavering support and warm condolences on behalf of both himself and the Mother Church to the grieving families of the victims and the entire Catholic Community affected by the tragic incident.
Expressing confidence in the authorities’ commitment to investigate the attack thoroughly, the Ecumenical Patriarch emphasized the importance of shedding light on this event. Furthermore, he highlighted the necessity of preventing fear from overshadowing social peace and disrupting the harmonious coexistence among different religious communities in the country.
In times of such adversity, the Ecumenical Patriarch’s swift response and empathetic outreach underscore the importance of unity and solidarity among diverse religious communities, promoting a collective effort to maintain peace and understanding.
Article translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
