PATRIARCH MUTAFIAN OBSERVES RAMADAN FAST NOT TO DESERT MOSLEM BROTHERS
By Hakob Chakrian
AZG Armenian Daily
18/10/2006
The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan, is a holy month for
all Moslems. From dawn to sunset they fast during Ramadan. Mesrop
II Mutafian, Armenian patriarch of Constantinople, has decided to
observe Ramadan fast, Agos newspaper informs in an article titled
"Patriarch Observes Ramadan Fast" on September 29.
Here is what the Turkish-language Armenian paper writes: "On the first
day of Ramadan Mesrop II Patriarch of Turkey’s Armenians took part at
a party organized by Sisli mayor Mustafa Saregyul opening the fasting
period and made astonishing statements. The Patriarch announced to
Turkish journalists that he will fast during this year’s Ramadan,
too. ‘Prayer and fasting,’ he said, ‘are common values for both
Christians and Moslems. We, the Christians, observe a 7 days’ fast
before the Easter. Since I am always invited to the ceremonies of fast
opening, I’ve decided to join my Moslem brothers in fasting month’.
Mesrop II wished good Ramadan to all at the end."
These statements of Mesrop II to Turkish media require no comment. Let
us only remind that in 2004, when the European states were seriously
discussing whether to start or not talks for EU membership with Turkey,
the Patriarch was touring in Europe. Asked by Danish state minister
in Copenhagen "Are you not an Armenian?" he answered: "I am both
Armenian and Turk."
By joining Moslems in observing Ramadan fasting the Patriarch is
apparently preparing to announce: "I am both Christian and Moslem".
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress
