On the evening of November 15, 2023, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I visited the Armenian community in Troy. Accompanied by his pontifical delegation, he received a warm welcome from the community in front of the Sourp Khatch (Holy Cross) church.
In the church, Canonical prayers were conducted. Following the welcome address by HE. Arch. Anoushavan Tanielian, the Prelate of the Eastern Prelacy, His Holiness delivered a message. It is worth mentioning that HE Arch. Souren Kataroyan had journeyed from Canada to participate in the visit.
In his address, His Holiness underscored the importance of love, emphasizing that the church is a community founded on love. He highlighted that Christ not only loved humanity but also preached the importance of loving one another. His Holiness clarified that love is not merely an emotional state; it requires dedication, service, and support to others. Therefore, he urged the community to express their love in practical ways by supporting immediate and extended families: the nation, the church, and the community.
The evening continued with a reception, followed by a dinner in honor of His Holiness later in the night. Speeches were delivered by Antranig Karageozian, Chair of the Board of Trustees, and the Prelate.
His Holiness also addressed the gathering, expressing the significance of preserving traditions and values and emphasizing the importance of unity around the church.
On the following morning, Thursday, November 16th, His Holiness Aram I convened with representatives of Armenian organizations in Troy. During this meeting, he stressed the imperative of cooperation and the need to revitalize the methods of the organizations’ work.
Subsequently, His Holiness departed from Troy to New Britain, Connecticut.
