On Saturday evening, August 11^th, 2018, the Armenian Church, Catholicosate of Cilicia celebrated the feast of the Assumption of the Holy Mother of God on the open-air alter of St. Mary’s Monastery in Bikfaya. The Divine Liturgy was presided over by His Holiness Aram I and celebrated by His Grace Bishop Massis Zoboyan, the Prelate of Kuwait and Neighboring Countries. The Children’s “Naregatsi” choir sang the Divine Liturgy.

At the end of the Liturgy, His Holiness proceeded to the altar, led by a procession, and conducted the blessing of the grapes and the sacrifice [Madagh], and delivered his pontifical Speech.

In his speech, His Holiness described Virgin Mary as the model of the virtuous women and stated that the Armenian literature refers to Her as the emblem of sanctity and humility, which is why we desire to observe mothers in general and Armenian mothers in particular in light of St. Mary’s qualities.

His Holiness then spoke about the youth and the importance of their participation in the church and community life. He commended the participants of the Summer Youth Academy and ensured that they will return to their churches in the USA and Canada equipped with knowledge and skills to renew and reform the Armenian Church.

Finally, His Holiness Aram I referring to the “Velvet Revolution” in Armenia, stated that the revolution leader and now Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s success is the success of all Armenians. He claimed that although it is very early to assess the fruits of the revolution, we salute Pashinyan’s efforts thus far.

It is worth mentioning that His Holiness Aram I praised the Children’s choir, led by His Grace Bishop Meghrig Parikian, and named the choir “Naregatsi,” hence, blessing their journey.

The pilgrimage ended with the faithful sharing a common meal prepared from their blessed offerings and the grapes in memory of the Martyrs.