Special to WorldTribune.com

WASHINGTON — The United States has urged Turkey to reopen a
Christian school shut down more than 40 years ago.

Congress has issued a call for Turkey to allow the reopening of the
Ecumenical Patriarchate’s theological school of Halki.

The school was shut down in the aftermath of the military coup in Turkey in 1971.

“This closure has been an issue of concern for members of Congress and administrations,” Rep. Gus Bilirakis said.

On Nov. 19, the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats called on the government of Prime Minister Recep Erdogan to order the renewal of operations at the theological school. The resolution was sent to the full committee.

“Calling upon the government of Turkey to facilitate the reopening of
the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s Theological School of Halki without condition
or further delay,” the resolution said.

The patriarchate has been part of the Orthodox Church for the last 17
centuries. The school, which had trained clergy for the 300 million member
Orthodox community, was established outside Istanbul in 1844.

This marked the second time the House passed such a resolution.
Officials said Erdogan has indicated that he would reopen the school.

“This resolution merely encourages the government to take the last
step.” Bilirakis, a Florida Republican, said.

  Halki, Recep Erdogan, Rep. Gus Bilirakis, U.S. presses Turkey to reopen Christian school closed in 1971