MOSCOW LAYS ARMENIAN CATHEDRAL FOUNDATION STONE

RIA Novosti, Russia
Oct 16 2004

MOSCOW, October 16 (RIA Novosti) – Moscow will soon have another
cathedral, whose foundation stones were consecrated today. The new
shrine will belong to the New Nakhichevan and the Russian dioceses
of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Mayor Yuri Luzhkov addressed the congregation to congratulate the
Moscow ethnic Armenian community, soon to receive a majestic house
of prayer. He pointed out close links of the Russian and Armenian
nations throughout many centuries, and highlighted an honorable
Armenian contribution to Russian culture, research and industry.

The mayor thanked Alexis II, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia,
Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church, for his stances on other
Christian denominations, which promote Christian unity.

Alexis II and Garegin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, laid a
commemorative capsule in the cathedral foundation.

Mutual understanding and friendly partnership are characteristic
of present-day Russian-Armenian relations. The Russian and Armenian
Churches are exchanging their ample experience and precious spiritual
heritage, said Garegin II.

“Friendly ties between our Churches and flocks will strengthen here,”
added Alexis II.

The cathedral will be essential part of an upcoming Armenian Cultural
Center. It will have a residence of the Patriarchal Exarch of the
Armenian Apostolic Church in Moscow, an educational center plus Sunday
school, a library, a conference hall, and a club-total floor space
22,000 square meters.