Easter, which is one of the biggest feasts of the Orthodox Christians and the one which symbolizes the rebirth of Christ, was celebrated in Mardin.

In the sermon which was given by the Syriac Priest Gabriel Akyüz in the Kirklar Church, participants were sanctified with incense of special odor which were placed in silver cups. While Priest Akyüz read hyms in Arabic, Hebrew and in the Syriac language, he also gave some advice in Turkish to the mass.

The Christian Syriacs who have been fasting for fifty days broke their fasts after the sermon with sanctified Easter buns and water.

The Governor of Mardin Temel Kocaklar, Acting Mayor Mehmet Sadioglu, Acting Mufti Zeynettin Akin and other authorities were also present at the Church to celebrate the Syriac citizens on the occasion of Easter.

In his statements at the Church, Governor Kocaklar pointed out that Mardin had become a city full of culture in the way that it embodied people who belonged to different religions and who lived in peace and comfort for thousands of years and said that, "this warm solidarity and understanding is so beautiful that it sets an example to other countries in the world. We celebrate the Easter of our Christian citizens".

By stating that Mardin is a mosaic which embodies languages and religions, Priest Gabriel Akyüz also said: "Mardin has historical merit which is equal to that of Venice and Jerusalem. Sounds of church bells mixed to that of the Muslim prayers for thousands of years creating an atmosphere of tolerance. We are so very happy to live with our Muslim brothers in such an environment."

Later on Governor Kocaklar and Priest Akyüz hit each others eggs.

(Press, 16.04.2001)