Armenian Church in Istanbul holds "luncheon of love"

ISTANBUL

A church in central Istanbul hosted a luncheon on Friday.

Churchgoers and Muslims came together at the annual "luncheon of love" in Surp Vartanants Church in Ferikoy, within the district of Sisli. The meal coincides with the Islamic holiday, Eid al-Fitr.

Sisli Mayor Mustafa Sarigul said it was important for Muslims to be at the church for lunch.

During the event, he thanked the organizers and said a prayer for the acceptance of the fasting that Muslims did during the month of Ramadan.

"It is very important for world peace and the history of humanity that Muslims are here at Ferikoy Church for lunch. Because when God puts us in this world, we can't know which ethnicity we will belong to."

"We wish the atmosphere [at the luncheon] to be spread all around the world."

Sarigul referred to several sacred months and holidays in both Islam and Christianity, and said: "Ramadan and Muharram are ours, so are Noel and Easter."

Reverend Yegise Uckunyan expressed pleasure at seeing people gather at the event.

"It is very beautiful to be human, and very beautiful to be together," he said.

Following the meal and remarks, Osman Ozhan of the Sisli municipality performed a short recital from the Islamic holy book, Qur'an.

Close to hundred people attended the event.

englishnews@aa.com.tr