PRESS RELEASE
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Contact: V.Rev.Fr.Krikor Chiftjian, Communications Officer
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E- mail: cathcil@cathcil.org
Web:
PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon
Armenian version:
HIS HOLINESS ARAM I VISITS THE
SAINT ASDVADZADZINE CHURCH OF ALEPPO
His Holiness Aram I visited the Saint Asdvadzadzine Church of Aleppo on
May 21, where he was welcomed by a large number of faithful.
His Holiness blessed the masses of the faithful as he walked through them
and entered the church.
Primate Bishop Shahan Sarkissian delivered a few words of warm welcome to
His Holiness Aram I, considering the Pontifical visit a good opportunity to
get a closer look at the life of the Syrian-Armenian community. He pointed
out that such visits were the best expression of the Armenian Church’s care
for its people and its nature as a mission rather than a mere structure.
The Pontiff delivered a sermon focusing on the concept of loyalty to the
Church established by Jesus Christ. "Who believes in Christ should follow
him. Christ Himself said: those who believe in me, let them carry the cross
and follow me."
Elaborating on what it means to be Christian and to follow Christ, His
Holiness said: "Being Christian means living a cross centered life. The
Cross is a symbol of love and dedication. The Cross is a symbol that
signifies a goal, the establishment of the Kingdom of God, which was founded
by Jesus Christ. Being Christian means basing our life on love. Being
Christian means living for the other, dedicating our life to others. Being
Christian means making the establishment of the Kingdom of God the main aim
of our life."
Having talked on these three characteristics of Christianity, the
Catholicos talked about the true path leading to them, which is the Church.
"It is the Church that guides us towards Christ. Our church’s unparalleled
role in our spiritual growth can not be replaced otherwise," he said.
His Holiness also spoke about the role of the Armenian Church throughout
history, emphasizing the possibilities of Armenians living a harmonious and
collective life under its umbrella.
The sermon was followed by Achahampouyr. His Holiness then visited the
"Gertasirats" Armenian school, located next to the church. He explored the
school’s newly built section and highly praised philanthropist Gabriel
Chemberdjian who was present at the reception.
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