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Friday, July 10, 2020
We, the Executive Committee of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox
Bishops of the United States of America, protest the decision of the
civil courts in Turkey, as well as the clear direction of their
government, to re-convert Hagia Sophia into a mosque. As citizens of the
United States of America, we implore our government to intervene for
the reversal of this decision. Furthermore, we urge the Turkish
government to return to the status quo whereby Hagia Sophia remains a
museum, respecting both its origins and history.
By contrast, this unilateral action denies the universal vocation of
this holy and sacred place. Hagia Sophia belongs to the whole of
humanity as a World Heritage Site. Built in 537 AD during the reign of
Emperor Justinian, it has been, for more than a millennium, a place of
rich cultural and spiritual inspiration for all.
We are particularly concerned about the negative effects such a
change will have on religious pluralism in Turkey, as well as on the
relations among nations and between faith-based organizations. We call
on the international community to invite the Turkish authorities to
revise their decision, affording all people the opportunity to continue
enjoying the full and rich history and beauty of this outstanding
landmark. This unique Christian monument should remain open to all as a
sign of co-existence and peace among all peoples of good will.
