Archbishop Elpidophoros of America has urgently called for the protection of the Greek minority in Istanbul following the desecration of the Orthodox cemetery of Agios Eleftherios in the Tatavla community which has served the Greek Orthodox community for 159 years.
The desecration occurred on the day of Divine Liturgy at the Panagia Soumela Monastery in Trabzon, with graves being damaged, pits dug, and guard dogs found drugged.
In a social media post, Archbishop Elpidophoros emphasized the need for religious tolerance and respect. He urged the authorities to fulfill their duty and obligation to ensure the sanctity of all holy places.