Catholicos says pilgrimages, education vital for national identity

PanARMENIAN.Net - On July 10, at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II received pilgrims from the Holy Trinity Church of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America in Boston, as well as young participants of the diocese’s service program in Armenia. They were accompanied by Rev. Fr. Vazgen Kuzoyan and Rev. Fr. Tadeos Barseghyan.

His Holiness conveyed his paternal blessing to the visitors and expressed satisfaction at witnessing the pilgrims’ devotion and love for their Homeland and the Mother Church. He commended the clergy for their efforts in organizing such pilgrimages, especially during challenging times.

During the meeting, the Catholicos highlighted the educational initiatives held at the Mother See aimed at enhancing Diaspora youth’s knowledge of the Armenian language, history, and spiritual life, while fostering national identity and patriotism.

He urged the pilgrims to encourage their children to participate in these educational programs, which will be held on a continuous basis.

In conclusion, His Holiness exhorted the attendees to return to their communities with renewed faith and actively contribute to the Church’s spiritual and national-preservation mission.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan recently posted on Facebook, declaring that “the house of Christ is seized by a immoral, anti-national group and must be liberated,” stating he will “lead that liberation.” The World Council of Churches has issued a solidarity appeal in support of the Armenian Apostolic Church.