HATAY, Türkiye

A service was held at an Orthodox church in southern Türkiye on Thursday to mark the feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. 

Christians gathered at the St. George (Mar Circos) Greek Orthodox Church in Iskenderun, Hatay to observe the annual occasion.

After the devastating earthquakes in the region of Feb. 6, 2023, the church had served as a shelter to survivors.

Father Yusuf Nicholas Papasoglu led the church service, which included readings from the Bible and the singing of hymns.

Attendees lit candles and made wishes, offering a Praise Prayer to the Virgin Mary.

The bread was also distributed to the worshipers.

The doctrine of the Assumption, also known as the Dormition, asserts that May, the mother of Jesus, was taken into Heaven “body and soul,” without perhaps having to die first. It is believed by many Catholics and Orthodox Christians.   

*Writing by Gizem Nisa Cebi