The Apodosis of the Dormition of the Theotokos was commemorated with solemnity at the historic Monastery of Panagia Soumela in Trebizond, Turkey.
The liturgy took place on August 23, eight days after the feast day of the Dormition of the Theotokos after Turkish officials prohibited religious services on the day.
During the Divine Liturgy, heightened security measures and restrictions were employed along the route from the city of Trabzon to the monastery.
The restrictions yielded a limited number of attendees, with the lowest number on record at less than 100 people gathering.
The day was celebrated by Metropolitan Stefanos of Kallioupolis and Madytos. In his homily, Metropolitan Stefanos emphasised the importance of prayers for peace and solidarity across the world.
This occasion marked the second time that Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew was not in attendance at the Divine Liturgy.
Source: Orthodox Times.
