Declaration
by the Orthodox clergy and faithful of Berati
on the anti-religious events in the church of the Theotokos in Përmet
We, the clergy and faithful of the Orthodox Church in Berati were indignant to hear the saddening news that in Permet some employees of the baliff’s office, with the aid of a private security force have, in a most unacceptable and inappropriate manner, laid hands on the cross of the Church of the Theotokos, as well as stolen icons, bells and other church articles.
We became aware of this offensive news through televised media on August 16th, 2013 and from the press on August 17th, 2013.
It is unfortunate that for more than 16 years the faithful of Permet have had a serious confrontation with representatives of the local government, demanding that the building be returned to its former state as a church- as it had been for centuries under the name of “St. Mary of the Bazaar”.
Although until now this request by the clergy and faithful of Permet has never been fully resolved violence was used to forcefully take back this holy temple where people find spiritual peace.
We categorically cannot be reconciled with these antireligious actions and rightfully demand that the government intervene decisively in order to give a final resolution to this very delicate problem, by fulfilling this most lawful demand.
Only in this way can they contribute to inter-religious tolerance and understanding which has done and continues to do so much for the cooperation, brotherly harmony and mutual support between religious communities and the local government.
We have unwavering faith that even on this occasion justice will be done.
By the Orthodox Clergy and faithful of Berati
