On Friday morning, November 17th, 2023, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I was warmly welcomed upon his arrival in New York at the entrance of Sourp Sarkis (St. Sarkis) Church by the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Nareg Terterian, along with members of the Board of Trustees, diocesan representatives, and the congregation.
Following the “Hrashapar” canonical prayers and welcoming remarks by the Prelate of the Eastern Prelacy of the USA, HE Arch. Anoushavan Tanielian, His Holiness addressed the faithful.
In his pontifical message, His Holiness spoke about the life and witness of the church as the house of God. He emphasized that we all are children of this sacred house, which protects us from life’s adversities, strengthens our faith, encourages us to love one another, and instills in us resilience in the face of challenges. His Holiness stressed the importance of active participation in the life, mission, and service of the church.
Subsequently, a reception was hosted in the hall of the church. During this gathering, Fr. Nareg delivered a speech and subsequently encouraged the attendees to direct their concerns and requests to the Catholicos, who provided necessary explanations and clarifications.
The following day, Saturday, November 18th, His Holiness met with the youth from St. Illuminator and St. Sarkis Churches in New York, as well as Sts. Vartanants Church of New Jersey. The discussion mainly focused on the reorganization of the Diaspora, the revitalization of the church, and the role of youth in Armenian life.
