Under the high auspices of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the 50^th anniversary of the Shnorhali Choir was marked on Saturday, February 17^th, 2024, at Center Emile Lahoud for Culture and Congress. The concert, which was initially scheduled for the previous year but had to be postponed due to the situation in Artsakh, was conducted by V. Rev. Fr. Zaven Najarian, and accompanied by Hampig Mardirosyan on the piano.

The opening speech was delivered by Fr. Zaven, who reflected upon the significance of anniversaries, considering them not only as milestones but as opportunities for new beginnings. He emphasized that the past 50 years have been made possible through the dedicated service and unwavering faith of the choir’s conductors and numerous members throughout the years. He also highlighted the choir’s role in fostering a profound connection between people and the Armenian Church. Fr. Zaven concluded by expressing honor and gratitude to all who contributed, extending filial thanks to Catholicos Aram I for his constant support and care.

The program, which commenced with the Lord’s Prayer composed by the late Arch Zareh Aznavorian and concluded with the late Bp. Meghrik Parikian’s composition of “Glory to you, God,” included songs and hymns composed by previous conductors or dedicated to their memories.

After the concert, His Holiness delivered his pontifical speech on the occasion of the jubilee. His Holiness reflected on the 50-year journey of the “Shnorhali” choir, emphasizing the collective effort, unwavering dedication, and conscious commitment that defined its mission. He highlighted the role of volunteers in carrying out a mission, considering them as apostles and expressed respect for all those involved in the choir’s journey. He specially acknowledged the founder of the choir Catholicos Khoren I and Catholicos Karekin II, who had provided steadfast support. Gratitude was extended to conductors, choir members, musicians, and volunteers, past and present. His Holiness encouraged the audience to recognize the choir’s impact not only in the realm of art but also in culture and church life. Commemorating the contribution of the Lebanese-Armenian community to Armenian life, particularly through the “Shnorhali” choir, he expressed hope for its continued position as a cultural beacon in Diaspora Armenian life, capable of overcoming challenges. The Catholicos concluded by extending pontifical commendations to everyone contributing to this mission.

The evening came to an end with the collective recitation of the Cilicia anthem.