His Holiness Catholicos Aram I has bestowed upon philanthropist Yercho Samuelian the Knight of Cilicia insignia, at the request of the Prelate of Lebanon, Archbishop Shahe Panossian. This honor is a token of appreciation for Samuelian’s longstanding dedication to the Armenian Community and Church. In a pontifical encyclical issued on this occasion, His Holiness praises…
Under the auspices of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the āCilicia Analytical Platformā will host a pan-Armenian conference titled “Reinstating the Indigenous Rights of Artsakh People: Confronting Azerbaijan’s Genocidal Policy” from April 20th to 22nd, 2024, at the Catholicosate of Cilicia in Antelias. This conference will convene 30 experts in history, international law, and politics…
On Wednesday, April 10th, 2024, the newly elected Executive Board of the Bible Society Lebanon assembled in Harissa. The General Secretary and CEO, Mike Bassous, delivered his remarks emphasizing the mission of the Bible Society and the objectives of the Board. The members also engaged in discussions, evaluating the activities of the past three years…
On the occasion of the Feast of the Holy Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Armenian Catholic Patriarch, His Beatitude Raphaƫl Bedros XXI, and his delegation visited His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, on Friday, April 5th, 2024. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss topics pertaining to Lebanon, Armenia, and Armenians around the globe.
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I presided over and conducted the Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning, March 31st, 2024, to celebrate the Feast of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral at the Catholicosate of Cilicia in Antelias. During his homily, His Holiness referenced John 16:33, emphasizing Christās victory over…
Presided over by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, on the eve of Easter, Saturday, March 30th, the Easter Vigil service (Jrakaluyts) took place during the Divine Liturgy, conducted by the Cathedral’s grand sacristan, HE Arch. Gomidas Ohanian. At the conclusion of the service, the grand sacristan lit a candle from the altar and presented it…
On the evening of March 29th, 2024, a solemn service marked Good Friday, recalling the burial of our Lord Jesus Christ, at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Antelias. His Holiness Catholicos Aram I presided over the service and delivered his message. Quoting 1 Peter 3:18 āFor Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I led the somber vigil service of Maundy Thursday, marking the Passion of Christ, on March 28th, 2024, at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral. The service included readings from the Bible and Gospel, the extinguishing of 12 candles, recitation of hymns, and the poignant song “Where are you, my mother?” evoking…
On March 28th, 2024, Holy Thursday observances commenced at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Antelias, presided over by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. The day began with the Canon of Repentance followed by the morning Eucharist, leading up to the Washing of the Feet Service in the afternoon, and concluding with the evening service…
On Great and Holy Tuesday, during the evening service, the Armenian Church commemorated the parable of the Ten Maidens, in Antelias. Per tradition, during the Gospel reading, ten young students from the Catholicosate Sunday School presented themselves in front of the Altar holding candles; the five āwiseā women were prepared to wait for the ābridegroomā…
On Saturday, March 23rd, 2024, a meeting was held between His Holiness Catholicos Aram I and the Syriac Orthodox Patriarch of AntiochĀ Moran Mor IgnatiusĀ Aphrem II, at the Patriarchal Residence of the Syriac Orthodox church in Atchaneh. The discussions centered around various ecumenical matters. His Holiness was accompanied by HE Arch. Nareg Alemezian and V. Rev.…
On the evening of Palm Sunday, March 24th, 2024, the Opening of the Portals ceremony took place at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, presided over by His Holiness Aram I. HE Arch. Shahan Sarkissian conducted the ceremony, symbolizing the Second Coming of Jesus Christ and the opening of the door of Salvation. Archbishop Shahan quoted…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I presided over the Palm Sunday celebration at the Catholicosate of the Holy See of Cilicia in Antelias on Sunday, March 24th, 2024. Archbishop Shahan Sarkissian celebrated the Divine Liturgy and led the traditional procession, with children, young adults, and all other faithful holding olive branches and following the clergy and…
On Saturday, March 23rd, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I met with representatives from the three Armenian Political Parties active in Lebanon: Vanig Dakessian (the Social Democrat Hunchakian Party), Hagop Pakradouni (the Armenian Revolutionary Federation), and Dr. Avedis Dakessian (The Armenian Democratic Liberal Party). During the meeting, they discussed the upcoming events commemorating the…
On Wednesday evening, March 20th, 2024, an Ecumenical gathering was hosted by the Catholicosate of Cilicia on the occasion of the WCC General Secretary Prof. Rev. Dr. Jerry Pillayās inaugural visit to Lebanon. The Ecumenical Officer of the Holy See of Cilicia, V. Rev. Fr. Hrant Tahanian, conveyed the opening remarks. His Holiness Catholicos Aram…
On Friday, March 22nd, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received the Armenian Ambassador to Lebanon, Vahakn Atapekyan. They discussed issues pertaining to Armenia and Lebanon.
On Thursday, March 21st, 2024, Rev. Prof. Dr. Jerry Pillay, General Secretary of the World Council of Churches (WCC), paid a visit to His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. Accompanying the General Secretary were Carla KhijoyanāWCC Programme Executive for the Middle Eastāand Seta KhedeshianāAssociate Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches. The discussion…
From March 12th to 15th, 2024, the Lay and Religious Councils of the Central Council of the Catholicosate, the prelates of the Holy See of Cilicia, and chairs of the Catholicosateās diocesan executive councils convened in Antelias, presided over by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. During the meetings, reports from various departments and committees were…
Under the auspices of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the Armenian Church, Holy See of Cilicia observed the Feast of St. Gregory the Illuminatorās Descent into the Pit (Khor Virab) and the Catholicosateās Pilgrimage Day on March 17th and 18th, 2024, at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Antelias. On Sunday, March 18th, the Divine…
During the Antelias Pilgrimage Day, sacred relics housed in the Cilicia Museum are unveiled for the faithful. As such, on March 16th, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, along with the Cilician Brotherhood, took out from the Cilicia Museum relics of several saints from the rich heritage of the Catholicosate of Cilicia. Notably, during the Divine…
On the evening of March 16th, 2024, a vigil service marked the eve of the Antelias Pilgrimage Day, which coincides with the feast commemorating St. Gregory the Illuminator’s descent into the Dungeon (Khor Virab). His Holiness Aram I presided over the service and delivered a sermon emphasizing the significance of spiritual rebirth, led by St.…
The Catholicosate of Cilicia has unveiled the Khoren Ayp Center, located in the renovated premises of the former Karageozian and later Souren Khanamirian Armenian school in Leylavanāan Armenian neighborhood in Fanar. This center aims to serve as a hub for youth engagement and various social and academic activities. The official opening ceremony, held on Thursday,…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I elevated four bishops of the Cilician Brotherhood to the rank of Archbishop: Bp. Magar Ashkarian (Prelate of Aleppo); Bp. Sipan Ketchedjian (Prelate of Isfahan); Bp. Mesrob Sarkissian (Prelate of UAE and Qatar); and Bp. Torkom Donoyan (Prelate of Western Prelacy of the USA). The ceremony took place on Thursday, March…
The World Council of Churches commissions held their inaugural meetingÕ½ in WCC headquarters in Geneva from the 5th to the 8th of March, 2024 to discuss their strategic plan for the current 8-year cycle. On behalf of the Holy See of Cilicia, Arshav Jerjerian, a member of the Armenian Church University Students Association, participated in…
Presided by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the Lay and Religious Councils of the Central Council of the Catholicosate will convene in the coming days. The Religious Council will address religious matters on day one, while the Lay Council will focus on organizational aspects on day two. His Holiness will hold separate meetings with representatives…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received the Canadian Ambassador to Lebanon, Stefanie McCollum, accompanied by her political advisor. They discussed matters pertaining to the Lebanese presidential election, the situation of the south and Lebanon, and relations between Lebanon and Canada.
On March 8th, the Cilician Brotherhood and Catholicosate staff gathered for a small celebration honoring the birthday of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. Together, they expressed their well wishes for His Holiness’s longevity, health, and continued blessed service. During the gathering, His Holiness extended his gratitude and bestowed his paternal blessing upon those present,…
During the recent meetings of three World Council of Churches (WCC) commissions in Geneva, Prof. Dr. Nora Bayrakdarian, representing the Holy See of Cilicia, was elected as vice moderator of the Commission of the Churches on International Affairs. At the session, she delivered a lecture titled āGlobal Governance: Challenges and Emerging Geopolitical Trends.ā Prof.…
On Thursday, March 7th, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received the Japanese Ambassador to Lebanon, Mr. Magoshi Masayuki. This was the Ambassadorās inaugural visit to the Catholicosate. During the meeting, His Holiness provided an overview of the Holy See of Cilicia, shedding light on its mission and departments, as well as briefed on…
The Armenian Prelacy of Lebanon joyfully reinstated the cherished tradition of inviting His Holiness Catholicos Aram I to preside over the Mid-Lent sunrise service (Arevakal) at St. Nichan Cathedral on March 6th, 2024. Ā Members of the Cilician Brotherhood and the seminarians accompanied His Holiness Aram I, while Armenian high school students and members of…
On Monday, March 4th, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received a delegation from the Ethiopian community in Lebanon. Conveying warm fraternal greetings from the spiritual head of the Ethiopian church, they expressed gratitude for His Holinessā care and support. It is noteworthy that the Ethiopian church does not have a state recognition in…
The Zavarian Students Association (ZSA) of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) marked the beginning of its 120th-anniversary celebrations with a visit to His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, seeking his pontifical blessings for their celebratory year, on Saturday, March 2nd, 2024. Vatche Nadjarian, the ZSA representative on the ARF Central Committee, led the delegation. This…
On Friday, March 1st, 2024, the newly elected Archbishop of Mount Lebanon and Tripoli of the Syriac Orthodox Church, HE Mor Chrysostomos Mikhael Shamoun, visited His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, seeking pontifical blessing for his new role. His Holiness Aram I welcomed the guest expressing well wishes for his pastoral endeavors and highlighting the…
The Regional Committee of the Armenian Relief Cross of Lebanon (ARCL) and the director of the Araxi Boulghourdjian Socio-Medical Center of the ARCL visited His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, on Tuesday, February 27th, 2024, to receive pontifical blessings for their mission. On this occasion, they briefed His Holiness Aram I on their current and forthcoming…
Beirut Governor Marwan Abboud, and Beirut Mayor Abdallah Darwish, accompanied by Beirut Municipality Council member Aram Malian, visited His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, on Thursday, February 29th, 2024. Ā Welcoming the visitors, His Holiness commended the Beirut Municipality’s work amid socio-economic challenges. He highlighted the active role of the Armenian community in the Municipality work,…
From February 22nd to 26th, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I hosted a delegation from the Mesrob Mashdots Institute of Ancient Manuscripts, Armenia, also known as Madenataran, in Antelias. The delegation, led by Director Ara Khzmalyan, included Deputy Director Vahe Torossian and Advisors to Director Kourken Kasbarian and Mihran Minassian. Throughout the visit, the…
On Monday, February 26th, 2023, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received the Lebanese ambassador to the Vatican, Dr. Farid el-Khazen. Ā Dr. el-Khazen updated His Holiness on the ongoing Vatican discussions concerning Lebanon, especially regarding the delayed Lebanese presidential election, the socioeconomic crisis, and the Gaza war. Ā They also discussed internal Lebanese affairs and…
Pan-Armenian fundraising for the Center for the Preservation of Artsakhās cultural heritage was initiated on February 20th, 2024 and will continue until March 23rd, 2024. The center was established in response to Azerbaijanās occupation of Artsakh and the destruction of its centuries-old cultural and spiritual heritage. Ā In an address on this occasion conveyed by…
On February 23rd, 2024 a delegation of SEMAS Bourdj Hamoud students visited His Holiness Catholicos Aram I to seek his blessings for their first-place victory in the SEMAS Lebanon National Competition. SEMAS, which stands for Soroban Education Mental Arithmetic System, was initially introduced to Lebanon by the Kendirjian family. Currently, Sevan Kendirjian-Sherbetjian directs and…
The Permanent Christian Conference paid a visit to His Holiness Catholicos Aram I on Thursday, February 22nd, 2024. Their purpose was to seek His Holiness’s insights and opinions on their intention to establish ecumenical cooperation among various Lebanese sects. During the meeting, the delegation presented the outcomes of their efforts in areas such as…
Presided over by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, on Thursday, February 22nd, 2024, the final unction and funeral service for V. Rev. Fr. Yeghishe Mandjigian was conducted by HE Arch. Gomidas Ohanian, at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, in Antelias. During the eulogy, Arch. Gomidas quoted Colossians 1:25, emphasizing the dedicated service of the…
On Wednesday, February 21st, 2024, a phone conversation took place between His Holiness Catholicos Aram I and Dr. Luis Moreno-Ocampo, the first prosecutor of the New and Permanent International Criminal Court. They emphasized that, in accordance with legal principles and relevant international laws, Azerbaijan’s genocidal policy against the people of Artsakh was a deliberate…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I welcomed the directors of the Jinishian Memorial Foundation (JMP) from Lebanon, Syria, and Armenia, led by Eliza Minasyan, the Executive Director/Coordinator. Commending their efforts and acknowledging the achievements and challenges of JMP, His Holiness bestowed his pontifical blessings. Ā Later that day, Catholicos Aram I received Louis Lahoud, the General…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received the Rector of St. Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) R.F. Dr. Salim Daccache and Director General of HĆ“tel-Dieu De France Nassib Nasr. Ā In attendance were Chair of the Armenian Sanitorium of Azounieh, Hagop Ladoyan, Chancellor of the Catholicosate of Cilicia, V. Rev. Fr. Dajad Ashekian and Doctor Hampig…
On Wednesday, February 21st, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received the Qatari Ambassador to Lebanon, Sheikh Saud bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani. During the meeting, His Holiness referenced the discussions he had with Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani in Qatar approximately a month ago, following the latter’s invitation. Notably,…
V. Rev. Fr. Yeghishe Mandjigian was born with the given name Ara in 1942 in the Karadouran village of Kessab, Syria. His family later moved to the Armenian neighborhood of Bourdj Hamoud in Beirut, Lebanon, where he attended the Armenian Forty Martyrs School. His passion for theological studies led him to the Armenian Theological Seminary…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I and the Cilician Brotherhood announce with great sorrow the passing of one of its most senior members, V. Rev. Fr. Yeghishe Mandigian (1942-2024) Ā that occurred on Wednesday, February 21st, 2024, in Lebanon. The funeral and the final consecration order will be held on Thursday, February 22nd, 2024…
Recent online sessions of the Cilicia Analytical Platform, under the auspices of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, focused on preparations for a conference addressing Azerbaijanās genocidal policy against Armenians. The conference is set to take place in April, on the commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, at the Catholicosate of Cilicia, in Antelias, with the participation…
Under the high auspices of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the 50th anniversary of the Shnorhali Choir was marked on Saturday, February 17th, 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…
The concluding conference of the series commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Armenian Church University Students Association (ACUSA) took place on Saturday, February 17th, 2024, under the auspices of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. High school students and young, engaged members of community organizations assembled in the Cilicia museum hall for the conference titled “Homeland…
On Friday, February 16th, 2024, the Central Committee of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) party in Lebanon visited His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. Ā During the meeting, they discussed topics related to Lebanon and the Lebanese Armenian community. Ā The committee expressed gratitude for His Holiness’ unwavering support in addressing the socio-economic challenges facing the…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I bestowed the prestigious St. Mesrob Mashdots insignia upon sculptor Vartan Avessian and guitarist Megerdich Mikayelian in a special ceremony organized by the Armenian Church University Students Association (ACUSA) on Thursday, February 15th, 2024, at the Hall of the Cilicia Museum. ACUSA member Gali Avakian delivered the opening remarks, while…
Presided by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the Eve of the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord Jesus Christ to the Temple (Diaruntarach) was solemnly celebrated on Tuesday, February 13th, 2024, at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Antelias. During the special service, Antasdan (Blessing of the Four Corners of the World), presenting the…
On Thursday evening, February 8th, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received MP Hagop Pakradouni, the Head of the Armenian Parliamentary Bloc, and Ishkhan Saghatelyan, chair of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Supreme Council of Armenia. Ā Ā The discussion centered on Armenian internal affairs, emphasizing the necessity to safeguard the integrity and security of…
At the invitation of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity and with the blessing of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, V. Rev. Fr. Avedik Der Garabedian, V. Rev. Fr. Kevork Karageozian, both serving as assistant of the Armenian Theological Seminary Dean, along with and Rev. Fr. Hrant Kevorkian, the pastor at Sourp Sarkis Church in…
As one of the earliest battles for Christianity, the Battle of Avarayr in 451 played a crucial role in defending Armenians’ faith. St. Vartan Mamigonian, leading the Armenian army against the larger Sassanid Persian Army, symbolizes the unwavering commitment of the Armenian people to their religious beliefs. The Feast of Saint Vartan and his companions…
On Tuesday, February 6, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received the newly appointed Ambassador of Greece to Lebanon, Despina Koukoulopoulou. Ā His Holiness briefed the ambassador on the mission and structure of the Holy See of Cilicia, addressing the current situation in Lebanon, focusing on the economic crisis and efforts toward the presidential election.…
On January 22 and 23, 2024, The Gulf Churches Fellowship (GCF) convened its annual meeting in Dubai, with the participation of V. Rev. Fr. Bedros Manuelian, Pontifical Vicar of Kuwait, representing the Armenian Church, Holy See of Cilicia. Ā Notably, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I addressed the conference on the first day, when he was…
Every year on the first Sunday of February, the Armenian Church, Holy See of Cilicia, observes a traditional requiem service to honor the memory of its departed catholicoi and clergy. As such, on February 4th, following the Divine Liturgy, the pontifical procession and the faithful moved to the Zarehian Mausoleum, next to St. Gregory the…
A formal banquet in honor of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I was held in Dubai, graced by 400 attendees, including dignitaries like the Ambassador of Armenia in the UAE, Garen Krikorian, and the Consul General of Lebanon in Dubai, Assaf Doumat. The event featured successive addresses from Christine Yepremian-Tossounianāmember of the Diocesan Executive CouncilāVaroujan…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I delivered a lecture in Dubai on January 30th, 2024, focusing on “The Globalization and the Armenian Youth.” The opening remarks were delivered by Rosaline Tashjian, who highlighted the relevance of the topic in the face of evolving global realities for Armenian youth. In his speech, Catholicos Aram I underlined the…
On Monday, January 29th, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I visited the General Consulate of Lebanon in Dubai, where Consul General Assaf Doumit and the consulate staff warmly welcomed him. In attendance were the Prelate of the UAE and Qatar, HG Bp. Mesrob Sarkissian, diocesan clergy, Co-chair of the Catholicosate Central Council, Krikor Mahseredjian,…
During his pontifical visit to the dioceses of UAE and Qatar, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I held meetings with various diocesan bodies and institutions in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah, respectively. These included meetings with chairs and members of the Armenian National Representatives Assembly, the Diocesan Executive Council, the board of trustees of Armenian schools,…
The 20th meeting of the Joint International Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches was held from January 22 to 26, 2024, hosted by the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, with a primary focus on Mariology. With the blessing of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, HE Arch. Nareg Alemezian…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I presided over the Sunday Divine Liturgy on January 28th, 2024, held at St. Gregory the Illuminator Church in Sharjah. The liturgy was celebrated by the Prelate of UAE and Qatar, HG Bp. Mesrob Sarkissian. Before inviting Catholicos Aram I to address the faithful, the Prelate extended a warm welcome,…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, along with his pontifical delegationācomprising the prelate of the UAE and Qatar, HG Bp. Mesrob Sarkissian, HE Arch. Oshagan Tcholoyan, members of the Cilician Brotherhood, and representatives of the Armenian communityāvisited the Ohannesian Armenian School in Sharjah as part of their pontifical visit to the UAE. Upon his arrival,…
The Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, held a reception in honor of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, on Friday, Janurary 26th, 2024. Minister Nahyan warmly greeted His Holiness, expressing appreciation for the visit. The Minister and His Holiness first met in 2016 and…
On Thursday, January 25th, 2024, a reception was organized by the Ambassador of Lebanon to the UAE, HE Fouad Chehab Dandan, and the Lebanese Business Council, in honor of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. Ā Ambassador Dandan delivered the welcoming remarks. He emphasized that His Holiness serves as a prominent voice in international circles advocating…
On Tuesday, January 23rd, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram met with the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with the attendance of the Minister of State at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, HE Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi. Ā During the meeting, they engaged in discussions covering various topics related…
On Wednesday, January 24th, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I and his pontifical delegation paid consecutive visits to the embassies of Lebanon and Armenia. Ā H.E. Fouad Chehab Dandan, Ambassador of Lebanon in the UAE, along with the embassy staff, warmly welcomed His Holiness, with Armenian and Lebanese residents in the UAE also in attendance.…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I addressed the faithful at the Srpots Nahadagats (Holy Martyrs) Church in Abu Dhabi during the second day of his pontifical visit to the Armenian Diocese of the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, on Tuesday, January 24th, 2024. Ā His Holiness was warmly welcomed at the gates of the church by…
With the blessing of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, on January 22nd, 2024, HE Arch. Nareg Alemezian visited Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vaticanās Secretary of State, Ā The discussion primarily focused on the current situation in Lebanon, where Arch. Nareg conveyed His Holinessā concerns and thoughts regarding the ongoing issues. Additionally, Arch. Nareg briefed Cardinal Parolin…
During the first day of his pontifical visit to Abu Dhabi, on Monday, January 22nd, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I addressed the Gulf Churches Fellowship (CGF) conference and visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. At the venue of the conference, the Catholicos and his delegation were officially welcomed by the chair of the…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, accompanied by his pontifical delegation, arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, January 21st, 2024, for a ten-day pontifical visit that will also include Dubai and Sharjah. The visit encompasses meetings with high-ranking state officials, diocesan and community bodies, and ecumenical councils. Ā Upon arrival, His Holiness was officially welcomed by…
With the blessing of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, His Eminence Archbishop Nareg Alemezian met with Cardinal Kurt Koch, the Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, on January 18th, 2024. Ā The discussions centered around various aspects of the ecumenical movement, including relations between the Vatican and the Holy See of Cilicia, as…
Under the auspices of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the two-day conference on Armenia, Artsakh, and regional developments concluded its sessions on Saturday, January 20th, 2024, addressing critical issues related to the depopulation of Artsakh. Noteworthy statements emerged from the conference, including the unanimous characterization of the depopulation of Artsakh as genocide by international law…
Under the auspices of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the “Analysis and Awareness Platform” (AAP) commenced its two-day conference titled “Armenian World and Recent Regional Events” on Friday, January 19th, 2024. It will extend through Saturday, January 20th. Following a series of online consultations within the AAP, this conference serves as a pivotal platform…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received the Armenian Ambassador to Lebanon, Vahagn Atabekian, and the Lebanese Ambassador to Qatar, Farah Berri, respectively. Ā Discussions with Ambassador Atabekian centered around the challenges facing Armenia, Diaspora-Armenia relations, and regional issues. Ā During the meeting with Ambassador Berri, they reflected on His Holiness’s recent visit to Qatar, highlighting…
On January 18th, 2024, a meeting took place in Antelias between His Holiness Catholicos Aram I and His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of Antioch and All the East. Accompanying Moran Mor Aphram II were His Eminence Mor Clemis Daniel Kourieh, Archbishop of Beirut, and Very Rev. Raban Dr. Joseph Bali Archbishop,…
With the blessing of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, a two-day conference focusing on Armenia and regional developments will be held at the Catholicosate of Cilicia in Antelias on January 19th and 20th. The conference will gather experts from Armenia, Artsakh, the USA, South America, France, and Switzerland. This conference follows a series of…
On Monday, January 15th, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received Archbishop Paolo Borgia, the Apostolic Nuncio to Lebanon. Archbishop Borgia presented two letters from Cardinal Kurt Koch, the Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, to His Holiness. The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on the current situation in…
In 2003, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I initiated a tradition of dedicating each year to a significant aspect of our collective lives. This year, the Catholicos has declared it the “Year of Human Resources Preparation.” On Sunday, January 14th, 2024, during the Divine Liturgy presided over by Catholicos Aram I, HE Arch. Shahan Sarkissian read…
MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS CATHOLICOS ARAM I OF THE GREAT HOUSE OF CILICIA To the Prelates, the clergy, the community authorities of the Catholicosate of the Great House of Cilicia, and to the daughters and sons of our people, Ā On the eve of 2024, with fatherly love, patriarchal blessings, and intense patriotic feelings,…
During his brief visit to Doha, Qatar, upon the invitation of the Qatari Prime Minister, His Holiness Catholicos Aram conducted meetings with the ambassadors of Lebanon and Armenia. Additionally, he attended a dinner hosted in his honor by the Qatari Ambassador to the UK, Fahad Bin Mohammed Al-Attiyah, and visited former Minister of Energy, Abdullah…
On Wednesday, January 10th, 2024, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister of Qatar, and His Holiness Catholicos Aram I had a meeting in Doha, Qatar. The discussion between the Prime Minister and His Holiness included issues related to the Armenian community in Qatar, the role of Qatar particularly regarding…
On Tuesday, January 9th, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I and his pontifical delegation arrived in Doha, Qatar, upon the invitation of the Qatari Prime Minister. His Holiness was welcomed at the airport by officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Qatar; the Prelate of the Armenian Prelacy in UAE and Qatar, HG…
Invited by the Prime Minister of Qatar His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I this morning has departed for Qatar. The visitation program of His Holiness will be extended over three days and will include meetings with the Prime Minister and high ranking officials. His Holiness will…
On December 29th, 2023, the Lebanese Ministry of Culture and the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran jointly organized a conference titled “The Tear of the Holy Virgin Mary ā Tragedies of Gaza.” The event, dedicated to Gaza, featured the participation of Jamileh Alamolhoda, the wife of Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi and a lecturer…
On Sunday, January 7th, 2024, His Holiness Aram I received a delegation representing Maronite Patriarch Bechara Rai. The delegation included Patriarchal Vicar Archbishop Paul Sayah, Head of the Youth Department Father George Yaran, and Patriarchal Protocol Director Walid Ghayyad. Ā In addition to exchanging Christmas greetings, discussions centered around topics related to the Lebanese presidential…
On Saturday, January 6th, 2024, the Armenian Church observed the Feast of Nativity and Theophany of Our Lord Jesus Christ. At St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Antelias of the Holy See of Cilicia, His Holiness Catholicos Aram conducted the Divine Liturgy and delivered the pontifical sermon. Archbishops Nareg Alemezian and Shahan Sarkissian served at…
On the eve of the Feast of the Nativity and Theophany of our Lord Jesus Christ, January 5th, 2024, His Holiness Aram I presided over the Christmas Vigil Service (Jrakaluyts – Lighting of the Candles), at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, in Antelias. At the end of the Divine Liturgy, the grand sacristan of…
The Prime Minister of Lebanon Mr. Najib Mikati met with His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, on Friday, January 5th, 2024. They discussed issues and challenges facing Lebanon, particularly the situation in the South of Lebanon, the presidential election, and the socio-economic crisis facing the country. The Prime Minister congratulated the Armenian community as it prepares…
On Thursday, January 4th, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I received the newly appointed French Ambassador to Lebanon, HervĆ© Magro. Ā During the meeting, they discussed the Lebanese presidential election, the war on Gaza by Israel, and France’s broader role in the Middle East, with a specific focus on its involvement in Lebanon. Ā As…
A NEW ALL-ARMENIAN STRATEGY Soon the year 2023 will be in the past and the New Year will rise in the horizon of our life. Indeed, the past year in the life of our nation was full of terrible hopelessness and profound disappointment. We are living in times full of unpredictable dangers. We are…
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I closely monitors the concerning situation surrounding the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem through representatives of the World Council of Churches (WCC) based in Geneva and Jerusalem. According to a message released by the Patriarchate, attached below, approximately 30 unidentified individuals attacked the congregation and the Patriarchate’s office in protest against…
On December 23rd, 2023, The Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) Dr. Michel Abs, accompanied by MECC Associate Secretary General Ms. Seta Khedeshian, Director of the Theological and Ecumenical Department Fr. Dr. Antoine Al Ahmar, and the Coordinator of the Ecumenical Musical Event that MECC will hold in 2024 Mr. Marc…
On Thursday, December 28th, 2023, Ambassador Maria Virginia Ruiz Quintar, the recently appointed Argentinian Ambassador to Lebanon, paid an inaugural visit to His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. Ā After His Holiness provided a brief overview of the mission of the Catholicosate, they meeting delved into discussions concerning the prevailing situation in Lebanon, the urgency of…
Archbishop Souren Kataroyan passed away on December 17th, 2023, in Montreal. The final ceremony took place at Sourp Hagop Church in Montreal, with the blessing of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I and presided over and led by HE Arch. Papken Tcharian, the Prelate of Canada. Ā Per Arch. Souren’s wish, his body was transported to…
On December 26th, 2023, the students from the “Zvartnots” Centre for Special Education and Rehabilitation, headed by Ms. Vartineh Ohanian, visited His Holiness Catholicos Aram I. Ā They began their day with a prayer session at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral, followed by receiving communion. In the Catholicosate garden, the students shared moments with His…
