The head of the Phanar congratulated the Jewish community of Istanbul on the occasion of Pesach holiday

On Monday, April 6, 2026, Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople made an official visit to the Neve Shalom Synagogue in Istanbul’s Galata district. The purpose of the visit was to pay his respects and convey holiday greetings to the city’s Jewish community on the occasion of the beginning of Passover.

According to Orthodox Times, the head of the Phanar was accompanied by Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon. During the meeting, the Patriarch conveyed warm greetings and best wishes on behalf of the Church of Constantinople, as well as expressed his personal support for Chief Rabbi David Sivi and all members of the Jewish community of Istanbul.

We shall remind you that on April 1, 2026, the website of the State Service of Ukraine on Ethno-politics and Freedom of Conscience (SESC) published a congratulatory message to Ukrainians on the Jewish holiday of Passover. The SES believes that “in the current realities” this day acquires a special significance for Ukrainians, becoming “a symbol of fortitude and unwavering faith in victory over difficulties”.