Heybeliada Greek Orthodox Seminary reopening efforts gain momentum

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has expressed optimism about the reopening of the Heybeliada Greek Orthodox Seminary, also known as Ayatriada Monastery or Halki Seminary.

In a recent interview with the Greek press, the Patriarch revealed that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has instructed the Ministry of Education to expedite the necessary procedures for the seminary’s resumption of operations.

“We are now confident that we are on the verge of resuming operations at Halki Seminary,” the Patriarch stated.

According to the Turkish daily Hurriyet, the seminary, which has frequently been in the spotlight regarding its reopening, is currently undergoing significant preparations. Restoration work on the seminary has significantly intensified in recent weeks. During a visit to Thessaloniki, Patriarch Bartholomeos expressed optimism about the seminary’s imminent return to operation, emphasizing the urgency of the efforts.

Discussions and collaborations

Bartholemew mentioned that discussions have been taking place between various delegations.

“The efforts to reopen the seminary are progressing swiftly. The Turkish minister of education visited our school and met with the head priest. Subsequently, the head priest, accompanied by a delegation from the seminary, traveled to Ankara to continue discussions and dialogue. Next week, a large delegation from the Patriarchate will visit the capital to discuss technical details,” he stated.

Hope for quick resolution

Expressing hope for a quick resolution, Bartholemew added, “I am extremely optimistic that we will soon achieve our goal of resuming operations at the seminary. Orders have been issued from above, specifically from President Erdogan, regarding the reopening. We are now certain that we are on the brink of resuming activities.”

Historical significance of Heybeliada Greek Orthodox Seminary

The Heybeliada Seminary has a significant historical legacy, established in 1844 to train Christian Orthodox clergy. It was closed in 1971 following a Constitutional Court ruling mandating that private higher education institutions be affiliated with state universities.

The Patriarchate rejected this requirement, leading to the cessation of the seminary’s activities that same year. Over its operational years, from 1844 to 1971, the seminary was regarded as one of the most important theological institutions in the Orthodox world, producing nearly 1,000 graduates, including 12 patriarchs, with Bartholemew among them.

International calls for reopening

Calls for the seminary’s reopening have also been echoed by international entities, including the United States and the European Union, over the years.

Their continued support highlights the seminary’s importance not only in Türkiye but also within the global Orthodox community.

Education Minister Tekin’s visit and future steps

National Education Minister Yusuf Tekin visited the seminary on May 28, where he conducted inspections and stated, “We are working according to our plans to ensure the seminary can operate effectively.”

During a recent appearance on CNN Turk, Tekin noted, “The opening of the seminary is a political decision. This decision is made by our president and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. If I receive an order to proceed with the opening, we have prepared our roadmap, completed our technical preparations, and documented our findings. We will have one final meeting soon.”

Awaiting clear directives for reopening

However, officials at the Istanbul Provincial Directorate of National Education, responsible for initiating educational activities, reported that while there has been recent movement regarding the issue, they have yet to receive a clear directive on the reopening.

This detailed examination of the current situation regarding the Heybeliada Greek Orthodox Seminary illustrates the ongoing efforts and international support for its reopening, emphasizing its historical significance and potential impact on the Orthodox community.