ISTANBUL
Greek Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew officiated the service which took place in Hagia George Church in the garden of Patriarchate.
Greeks living in Turkey, Christians from Greece and other countries showed great interest in the service, lighting candles, singing hymns and praying together.
The service was closed to press and lasted nearly four hours.
Christmas, meaning "Christ's Mass", is an annual commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ and observed on December 25.
