[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 140 (Wednesday, October 2, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1903]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   CONDEMNING THE ATTACK ON THE ECUMENICAL PATRIARCHATE IN ISTANBUL, 
                                 TURKEY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. RICHARD A. GEPHARDT

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 2, 1996

  Mr. GEPHARDT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to condemn the recent attack on the 
ecumenical patriarchate in Istanbul, Turkey.
  On September 30, a hand grenade and machinegun fire were directed at 
the ecumenical patriarchate in Istanbul. The home of Ecumenical 
Patriarch Bartholomew, this site serves as the headquarters of Orthodox 
Christianity for over 300 million worshipers worldwide. The damage from 
this attack is reported to have been extensive, having blown out 
windows of the Patriarchal Cathedral of St. George and the sleeping 
quarters of His All Holiness and others in the compound.
  Terrorist attacks such as this should be condemned by all, and must 
be tolerated by none. The targeting of a religious compound serves as a 
disturbing reminder of the extent to which the practitioners of terror 
will go to achieve their aims, and should cause us to redouble our 
efforts against those who seek gains through destruction and violence 
against innocent individuals.
  I urge the Turkish authorities to investigate and seek justice 
against the perpetrators of this deplorable act. I extend my support to 
Patriarch Bartholomew and Orthodox Christians throughout the world as 
you seek to restore the ecumenical patriarchate and continue to express 
your faith in peace.

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