Ishtartv.com - syriacpress.com

28/08/2025

MERDE, Turkey — On 28 August, Syriac Orthodox Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II began a pastoral visit to the historic Tur Abdin region in southeastern Turkey. The visit is scheduled to continue until 5 September and includes tours of villages, towns, and historic monasteries across the area.

In Merde (Mardin), Patriarch Aphrem II and his delegation — which included Patriarchal Vicar Youssef Bali and Patriarchal Secretary for the Affairs of the Church in India Mor Christophoros Markose Abraham — were received by Deputy Governor Maher Gourieh.

They were also welcomed by bishops Mor Timotheos Samuel Aktaş, Mor Yuhanon Lahdo, Mor Filüksinos Yusuf Çetin, Mor Filüksinos Saliba Özmen, Mor Dioscoros Benjamin Atas, and Mor Grigorius Melke Ürek, along with representatives from various church councils.

The Patriarch then proceeded to the Syriac Orthodox Mor Hananyo Monastery, also known as the Saffron Monastery, where he was warmly received by members of the Syriac community, including visitors from abroad and participants from across Tur Abdin.

Following a dinner at the monastery, the Patriarch and accompanying bishops traveled to the renowned Mor Gabriel Monastery.

Patriarch Aphrem II is expected to continue his visit with scheduled stops in several villages of Tur Abdin in the coming days.