His Holiness Catholicos Aram I in North Andevor

This news is shared from the website of the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia, Antelias, Lebanon.

On Friday, October 11, 2024, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, Catholicos of the Armenian Church, Holy See of Cilicia, and Honorary President of the Middle East Council of Churches, presided over the blessing of the khachkar (cross-stone) erected at Lowell, MA City Hall in commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, titled “A Mother’s Hand.” Speeches were delivered by the organizing committee, former Mayor and current City Councilor James Milinazzo—under whom the project was conceived—and current Mayor Patrick Murphy. The artist of the khachkar, Taniel Varoujan Hejinian, was also present at the event. Mayor Murphy welcomed His Holiness and presented him with the key to the city.

His Holiness delivered a heartfelt speech, emphasizing that Armenians continue to uphold the legacy of their ancestors and maintain a strong connection to their roots. Adding that the USA provided Armenian Genocide survivors with an opportunity for reorganization around the pillars of their identity, especially the church. “This memorial will serve as a reminder of our history and a cry for justice,” he stated.

Later, His Holiness arrived at Saint Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church in North Andover, where he was warmly received by the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Sdepan Baljian, representatives of diocesan and community bodies, the board of trustees, and representatives from local churches.

A “Hrashapar” welcoming service was conducted, after which His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian invited His Holiness to deliver his message. The Catholicos emphasized the importance of unity and faith…

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This news was originally published on the website of the Armenian Catholicosate of Cilicia, Antelias, Lebanon. Please click here to read the full text.