An Armenian khachkar (cross-stone) dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide has been installed in the courtyard of the Armenian Catholic Church of St. Gregory of Narek in Saint-Chamond, France, at the initiative of Kajaran Mayor Manvel Paramazyan.
The unveiling and consecration ceremony was attended by Paramazyan, Saint-Chamond Mayor Axel Dugua, municipal officials, clergy, members of the local Armenian community, and guests.
Following a special church service, the khachkar was consecrated by Bishop Elie Yéghia Yéghiayan, head of the Armenian Catholic Eparchy of Sainte-Croix-de-Paris, with the blessing of Father Raphael Shefikyan. A Holy Mass was also celebrated in memory of the victims of the Armenian Genocide.
During the ceremony, the mayors of Kajaran and Saint-Chamond emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between their sister cities, preserving Armenian cultural and spiritual heritage, and passing historical memory to future generations.
In recognition of his initiative and contributions, Paramazyan was awarded the Saint Ignatius Maloyan Medal and the St. Gregory of Narek Medal.
“The installation of the Armenian khachkar is a meaningful event not only for the Armenian community in France but also for all Armenians,” Paramazyan said, describing the monument as a symbol of historical memory, Christian faith, national identity, and the enduring friendship between Armenia and France.
The khachkar will serve as a permanent memorial to the victims of the Armenian Genocide and a testament to the resilience of the Armenian people.
