“CHRIST EXHORTS AT ALL TIMES: DO NOT BE AFRAID, DO NOT LOSE HOPE, BUT HOLD ON TO FAITH”

HIS HOLINESS CATHOLICOS ARAM I

Jesus’ triumphal entrance into Jerusalem was solemnly celebrated at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Antelias on Sunday, March 28^th, 2021, presided over by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I.

Following the Divine Liturgy, the pontifical procession headed to the Main Hall of the Catholicosate, where His Holiness addressed the faithful. He emphasized the significance of Palm Sunday stating that the faithful join the welcoming of Jesus to Jerusalem through the church. The Catholicos underlined that we live in a very challenging period and the need for hope strengthened by faith is greater than ever. Christ exhorts at all times to not be afraid and to not lose hope, but have only faith. Our people have always kept their faith before the tragedies they have faced throughout history, he said, and encouraged the faithful to find their strength in Christ. He concluded his speech by raising prayers to God entreating for faith and hope.

Note that Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon.

Due to the Corona Virus pandemic, it was not possible to conduct the children’s procession traditional to the feast; however, His Holiness blessed them and gave them gifts in honor of the occasion.