TRABZON, Turkey
Preparations are almost complete for the upcoming fifth Orthodox Divine Liturgy at Turkey's historic Sumela Monastery on August 15, the feast day of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
Located in the Macka district of the northeastern Turkish province of Trabzon, the Sumela Monastery is a site of historical and cultural significance as well as a major tourist attraction included in UNESCO's temporary list of World Heritage sites.
"All measures will be taken to ensure a safe and secure ceremony," Deputy Governor Halil Ibrahim Ertekin told Anadolu Agency, adding that around 300 staff, including special security, will be employed on site.
Around 300 people are expected to attend the Mass which will be conducted by Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew.
"The ceremony at Sumela is a matter of honor and prestige for us. We hope that all participants of this significant religious ritual will enjoy a safe and peaceful Mass," Ertekin said.
Built on a steep cliff at 1,200 meters in Altindere National Park, the Sumela Monastery reopened for religious use on Aug 15, 2010 with the permission of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, following an 88-year hiatus.
This year's Mass will be the fifth rite at the monastery marking the day believers say Virgin Mary was taken up into heaven.
About 350 people from Russia, Georgia, Greece, Australia and Ukraine attended the ceremony last year.
www.aa.com.tr/en
