News

Athens’ First New Mosque Since Ottoman Empire Officially Opens

The first mosque in Athens since Greece was liberated from the Ottoman Empire in 1821 opened its doors on Monday.

“A long effort by successive governments since 2006, when Law 3512 was passed, has been completed. Greece sends a clear message inside and outside the country, of democracy, religious freedom and respect,” said General Secretary of Religions Giorgos Kalantzis, reports Ekathimerini.

Council of Europe: The magnificent beauty of Hagia Sophia transcends religions

Hagia Sophia “is one of the most important world heritage sites and a legendary symbol of the interaction between cultures and the coexistence of cultures. The wonderful beauty of Hagia Sophia goes beyond religions”.

These phrases are included in today’s resolution that has been adopted by the relevant Committee on Culture, Science, Education and the Media of the Council of Europe, by a vote of 25 for, 2 against and 2 abstentions.

Pope appeals for peace in the Caucasus

Pope Francis appeals to leaders in Armenia and Azerbaijan to find a negotiated solution to the crisis in the region.

Pope Francis has appealed to conflicting parties in the Caucasus nations of Armenia and Azerbaijan to “accomplish concrete deeds of goodwill and fraternity” for a peaceful solution.

An encyclical for all brothers and sisters

While waiting to know the contents of the document, there has been some discussion about the title and how to translate it inclusively. An encyclical, though, is per se a universal text, and Pope Francis truly wants to speak to the heart of each and every person. The Holy See Press Office announces that the text will be published on 4 October.

International Photo competition “Colours of Orthodoxy. Finland”

Competition is organized by the Orthodox Church of Finland, OrthPhoto.net and the Publishing Department of the Polish Orthodox Church. The contest is organized to present the diversity and beauty of Orthodoxy in Finland. Through this contest, which will culminate with an album and an exhibition, we would like to present for wider audience Christian life in Finland. We are looking for images in these categories: Churches (architecture, frescos, crosses, tombs, landscape), People (ordained and lay, portrait, etc.), Reportage (Church events, pilgrimages, feasts, etc.). Entering the competition is free of charge. Due to Coronavius pandemics we encourage participants to look through their archives. If you sent your application before 31st of May you will not lose your limits. All entries must be received by September 4th, 2020.

Only headscarf-wearing women are allowed to enter Hagia Sophia

The entrance to Hagia Sophia in Constantinople, which has been converted into a mosque, is only allowed for women who wear a headscarf and are properly dressed.  “From now on, women who do not wear a headscarf or are not properly dressed will not be allowed to enter Hagia Sophia,” odatv4.com reports. It adds that… headscarves and one-piece suits are distributed for free at the entrance of the church for female tourists who wish to enter.