‘OUR PEOPLE’S FAITH, DETERMINATION AND VISION ARE CONSTANTLY RENEWED BY REMEMBERING 28 MAY’ SAID HIS HOLINESS ARAM I

On Sunday, 26 May 2013, celebrations to mark 28 May, Armenian Independent Day, began in the morning with the Holy Liturgy celebrated by Rev. Hovhannes Saghdejian. His Holiness Aram I then presided over the Memorial Service to honor the heroes of the Battle of Sardarabad in May 1918. This historic battle founded the first Armenian Republic. At the end of the Service a procession headed by Catholicos Aram I walked to the Main Hall for a special ceremony to celebrate the victory and the name day of His Holiness.  

Celebrations began with a eulogy read by Rev. Ghevont Kortmosian. The priest described the Battle of Sardarabad as the manifestation of the will of Armenians to live. Rev. Ghevont then congratulated His Holiness Aram I on his name day and said, “Your Holiness, you have been serving the Armenian Church for the past 45 years and leading the people as the good shepherd in the past 18 years. We are most grateful to you.”  

After the presentation of a program of cultural events, Catholicos Aram I said, “28 May is not just a date. It is a message that conveys the conviction and determination of our people to safeguard the independence of its homeland, cherish its historical heritage and outlive political upheavals.” He continued, “We should not take pride in the past but live the present by holding on to our ideals.” Celebrations ended with spiritual and cultural songs and the blessings of the Catholicos.