A Patriarchal Divine Liturgy marking the Feast of the Nativity and Theophany of Our Lord Jesus Christ was celebrated at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, presided over by His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians.
During the service, His Holiness delivered the Patriarchal Christmas message, reflecting on the sacred mystery of Christ’s Incarnation and the enduring values of faith, love, justice, and peace, while also addressing the pressing challenges confronting the Armenian people today.
In his message, His Holiness drew attention to the erosion of moral values in public and national life, the weakening of mutual trust, and the prevalence of injustice and repression. He reaffirmed that, despite ongoing trials and hardships, the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church remains unwavering and faithful to its God-given mission.
Special prayers were offered for the strength and resilience of the displaced Armenians of Artsakh and for the restoration of their violated rights. Prayers were also raised for the repose of the souls of the fallen soldiers who gave their lives in defense of the homeland, for the consolation of their families, as well as for unlawfully detained clergy, Armenians held in captivity, and those who remain missing.
At the conclusion of his address, His Holiness extended Christmas greetings to the hierarchs of the Armenian Church, the clergy, and the faithful in Armenia and throughout the diaspora, wishing them peace, spiritual renewal, and hope for a brighter future.
The Patriarchal message concluded with the traditional proclamation:
“Քրիստոս Ծնավ և Հայտնեցավ. Ձեզ և Մեզ մեծ Ավետիս.”
