Catholicos of All Armenians, His Holiness Karekin II emphasized the critical importance of unity and commitment during the official opening ceremony of the global pilgrimage titled “The Christian Family as the Anchor of Armenian Identity,” held on July 3 with his blessing. The event brought together clergy from Armenia and the diaspora, as well as spiritual leaders of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

In his remarks, Karekin II addressed the pressing challenges facing the nation, particularly the issue of forcibly displaced Armenians from Artsakh, societal divisions, and ongoing political pressure from authorities against the Armenian Church.

“Given the current challenges, it is imperative to stand united and devoted in defense of legality, to prevent the discrediting and diminishment of our Holy Church. In these difficult times, we must firmly uphold our faith, national dedication, and church loyalty. Who else but we—the clergy and our faithful—who together constitute the Holy Church, must strive to ensure that love, justice, and truth prevail in our homeland over arbitrariness and illegality, so our people may live in peace and unity,” he stated.

The Catholicos expressed satisfaction at the gathering of Armenian youth from around the world in Holy Etchmiadzin, viewing it as a moment to strengthen their faith, patriotism, and devotion to the Church and national values. He thanked the organizing leadership of the union and the efforts of youth structures in various dioceses.

“Our youth today face numerous spiritual and moral challenges, including the influences of globalization and secularism, which often deliberately offer various temptations to distance them from national traditions, ancestral heritage, and sacred values. As Armenian youth raised under the Church’s guidance and nourished by patriotism, protect our sanctities, engage actively in your diocesan and community life, and contribute to the building and advancement of national and ecclesiastical life,” said the Catholicos.

He expressed gratitude to Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, spiritual leader of the Armenian Church Youth Organization of Canada (ACYOC), for his longstanding contribution to organizing the union’s activities since its inception. He also acknowledged the dedication of Archimandrite Tovma Khachatryan, the union’s spiritual overseer and director of the central office, along with the staff, diocesan leaders, and clergy for their devoted care for the youth.

In conclusion, the Catholicos prayed for everyone and wished success to the Worldwide Armenian Church Youth Union for the glory of the Holy Church and the well-being of the Christ-loving Armenian people.

The pilgrimage, held from July 2 to 7 and organized by ACYOC_, has brought together around 300 church-loving youth from patriarchal sees, pontifical delegations, and various dioceses in Armenia and the diaspora._