Asbarez: Aram I Assesses Earthquake Damage in Aleppo

Catholicos Aram I assesses earthquake damage in Aleppo on Feb. 16


His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia paid a one-day visit to Aleppo to assess the damage caused by the massive February 6 earthquake.

The Catholicos was met by Aleppo Prelate, Executive Council members, community leaders and parishioners at the entrance of the St. Mary’s Church.

In his pontifical address during a Divine Liturgy, Aram I expressed his solidarity with the people and appealed to the community to remain strong in their faith and cling to the church and to its affiliated structures.

Following the Divine Liturgy, the Catholicos met with parishioners at the atrium of the church, where he conveyed his speech and gave them his blessings.

Aram I also toured various neighborhoods affected by the earthquake, assessed the damages, and prayed for the repose of the souls of the victims. He then met with the representatives of the community organizations and institutions, and became acquainted with their concerns and challenges, and the work they have accomplished thus far.

At the conclusion of his visit, the Catholicos met with the governor of Aleppo and conveyed his condolences and readiness to assist in the aftermath of the earthquake.

Emil Lazarian

“I should like to see any power of the world destroy this race, this small tribe of unimportant people, whose wars have all been fought and lost, whose structures have crumbled, literature is unread, music is unheard, and prayers are no more answered. Go ahead, destroy Armenia . See if you can do it. Send them into the desert without bread or water. Burn their homes and churches. Then see if they will not laugh, sing and pray again. For when two of them meet anywhere in the world, see if they will not create a New Armenia.” - WS