The Law of the Republic of Armenia Regarding the Relationship Between The Republic of Armenia and the
Holy Apostolic Armenian Church Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.
Information Services May 5, 2007
PLEASE CLICK THIS LINK TO READ ENGLISH TRANSLATION 
PRESS RELEASE
October 2, 2006 His Holiness Karekin II Receives President of France in Holy Etchmiadzin
On Sunday morning, October 1, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All
Armenians, received His Excellency Jacques Chirac, President of the Republic of France and his high-ranking delegation of Ministers from the French government. Accompanying the French President
were Vartan Oskanian, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia; Edward Nalbandian, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to France; and Henry Cuny, Ambassador of the Republic of
France to Armenia.Welcoming President Chirac to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, His Holiness expressed his joy that
the 15th anniversary of independence for the Republic of Armenia was highlighted by the visit of the president of France, as well as through the events commencing in France this month under the auspices of
the French Government entitled "The Year of Armenia in France". His Holiness Karekin II stated, "Your visit to Armenia and Holy Etchmiadzin is a fitting testimony to the
centuries of friendship between our two nations. From the center of Armenian spiritual life and on behalf of
our Nation and our Church, we express our gratitude to you and to the people of France for the support and assistance they have provided to our newly independent country, to our homeland, and to our people
throughout the last century. "We recall with gratitude that France graciously accepted the children of our nation who survived the
tragedy of genocide, and today, due to the caring and kind attitude of the French authorities, the Armenians
enjoy the full benefits of being French citizens, while living their national and spiritual lives to the fullest."
The Pontiff of All Armenians also extended his appreciation to the authorities of France for their legal recognition and strong condemnation of the Genocide of the Armenians. His Holiness appropriately noted
that this recognition was among the first in the world, and that it brought justice not only for the Armenian victims, survivors and their descendants, but also to all of mankind.
President Chirac, expressing his joy on the occasion of his visit to the headquarters of the worldwide Armenian Church, thanked His Holiness for the warm reception and offered his respects to the Armenian
Church and the Armenian Pontiff. "We are happy to be in the place where Christianity was officially established for the Armenian people. Due to the tides of history, there are many people in France of
Armenian descent and origin. This has contributed greatly to the long-standing friendship enjoyed between the French and Armenian peoples and our two countries", stated the French president.
Referring to the Armenian Genocide, President Chirac noted in part: "It's only natural that France was to
be one of the first countries to recognize the Armenian Genocide by law... I hope that by recognizing and condemning such crimes, they will never happen again in future."
Among other topics discussed by His Holiness and President Chirac were the increasing economic and political cooperation between the two states, the growing sphere of cultural relations between the two
countries, and the important role of France in the peaceful resolution of the Nagorno Karabagh conflict.
President Chirac affirmed that as one of the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk group, France will continue to support the resolution of the issue within the frameworks of the established working process.
At the conclusion of the meeting, His Holiness Karekin II and President Jacques Chirac visited the Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin and the Museum of the Cathedral.
His Eminence Archbishop Kude Nakkashian, Pontifical Legate of Western Europe and Primate of the Diocese of Paris; His Grace Bishop Arshak Khachatrian, Chancellor of the Mother See; and members of
the Brotherhood of Holy Etchmiadzin also attended the meeting. ## ===============================================
Website:
www.armenianchurch.org August 18, 2006His Holiness Karekin II Receives Pilgrims from
the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern) On August 17, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, received
more than 50 pilgrims from the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern). The pilgrims are in
Holy Etchmiadzin on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of their parish, St. James Armenian Church in Watertown, Massachusetts. The delegation of faithful sons and daughters of the
Armenian Church was led by their parish priest, Rev. Fr. Arakel Aljalian, and his wife, Yeretsgin Natasha. Receiving the large group of pilgrims in the Pontifical Residence, the Catholicos of All Armenians
welcomed them to their spiritual home and administrative center of the Holy Mother Church. Fr. Arakel
introduced the parish members to His Holiness and, on behalf of all his parishioners, expressed his love and
filial respect to the Mother See and the Pontiff of All Armenians. He asked His Holiness for his blessing and message to the pilgrims.
His Holiness extended his words of appreciation to the pilgrims on the occasion of their visit and, noting
their enthusiasm stated, "…May our Lord inspire you with the new reality of our country – our independent
homeland, with the spiritual renaissance of our Church and the developing life of our people, so that far from the homeland, but with her love always in your souls, you continue working and toiling with
restlessness and consolation for the benefit of your own parish and community, as well for our homeland and your brothers and sisters who live here."
His Holiness also reflected on Father Arakel's years of service as a pastor, commending him for his vigilant and dedicated service. ============================================== August 18, 2006Lake Sevan Hosts Brotherhood of Holy Etchmiadzin For the first time in more than a century, the ranks of the Brotherhood of Holy Etchmiadzin have swelled to
more than 90 members. In order to increase their fraternal ties to one another and reinforce their oath of service to God, the Armenian Church and the Mother See of All Armenians, regular clergy conferences
have been convened in Holy Etchmiadzin for the past decade. The second day of the 2006 conference, gathering the members of the Brotherhood of Holy Etchmiadzin,
continued its activities on August 17. The two sessions of the day took place at the Vaskenian Theological Seminary of Lake Sevan. Nearly 70 young monks and archimandrites (vardapets
) from throughout the world have gathered in Holy Etchmiadzin on this occasion. During the sessions, the priests participated in the lectures of Very Rev. Fr. Mkrtich Proshian, Dean of the
Vaskenian Theological Seminary, and Very Rev. Fr. Komitas Hovnanian, (Marseille, France). Fr. Proshian's lecture was entitled "The Priest as Teacher of the Faith", and Fr. Hovnanian's was entitled "The
Priest as Preacher". Discussion sessions, as well as question and answer periods, followed both lectures.
At the conclusion of the two sessions, the clergymen participated in Evening Services at the historic monastery of Sevan, in the Church of the Holy Apostles. The conference continues on Friday and
Saturday, concluding with Divine Liturgy in Holy Etchmiadzin on Sunday, August 20.
==================================================July 3, 2006 His Holiness Karekin II Departs for World Summit of Religious Leaders
On the morning of July 3, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, departed for Moscow to participate in the World Summit of Religious Leaders. From July 3 to 5, more
than 100 leaders of religions and denominations will gather in the capital of Russia for the first world summit
to discuss urgent problems of modern times. The summit precedes the G8 summit of industrial leaders in St. Petersburg.
The delegation, led by the Catholicos of All Armenians, consists of His Eminence Archbishop Voskan Kalpakian, Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Greece; His Eminence Arcbishop Pargev Martirosian,
Primate of the Diocese of Artsakh; His Eminence Archbishop Yeznik Petrosian, Director of the Department of Inter-Church Relations for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin; and Mr. Rafael Papayan,
lay member of the Supreme Spiritual Council. Also accompanying the Pontiff of All Armenians to Russia is His Grace Bishop Vicken Aykazian, who will
be participating in the Summit as the President of the National Council of Churches (USA). 
June 29, 2006Official English Transcript of the Press Conference by
His Holiness Karekin II Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians
At the Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople, Kumkapi, Istanbul, Turkey 25 June 2006 The moderator of the press conference was Ms. Luiz Bakar, spokesman for the Armenian
Patriarchate of Constantinople. His Beatitude Archbishop Mesrob Mutafian, Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople introduced His Holiness. His Beatitude Mesrob Mutafian
: Welcome, dear friends. His Holiness has allocated one half hour from his itinerary for today to be with you. He is here on a pontifical visit upon the joint invitation of the Greek
Patriarch and the Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople. He will be with us until June 27. Prior to his visit, a
number of strange news stories appeared in various media and news outlets, which caused us amazement. The articles had stated that the Armenian community and the Patriarchate were anxious with this visit;
however there was no such unease in the community. Up until this point, the visit has been progressing as
planned. The first two days of the visit, the Catholicos was the guest of the Greek Patriarch, according to
their itinerary; thereafter we visited Armenian churches and the sites and museums of Istanbul together. Since our time is limited, I request that there be no repetitions of questions. You may now ask any
questions which you desire. Question: Your Holiness, you are here as the guest of the Greek Patriarch. He is making efforts directed
at bringing the two Churches closer. What is your opinion on this and what will be the steps you implement? His Holiness Karekin II
: We are visiting Constantinople upon the invitation of the Armenian Patriarch and the Greek Ecumenical Patriarch. We have come on a pontifical visit to the Armenian Patriarchate of
Constantinople and a fraternal visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. As part of our visit (with the Ecumenical
Patriarch), there were meetings between the clergy of our Churches, where we discussed the theological and dogmatic issues about which there has been ongoing dialogue for quite a long time; meetings have
occurred and will continue to take place. The purpose of our visit to the Ecumenical Patriarch was the reinforcement and strengthening of the brotherly ties between our sister Churches, as well as the
continuation of the existing collaboration between our Churches with a new spirit and new warmth. Question
: During your meeting with the Governor of Istanbul, you stated that you are pleased with the regular (airline) flights between Yerevan and Istanbul, however similar steps must continue. What do mean
by "steps"? His Holiness Karekin II: We expressed our satisfaction that Yerevan-Istanbul flights occur regularly. As
you are aware, our country – the Republic of Armenia – is inclined to improve relations with Turkey, and
we are certain that as a result (of those improved relations) we will find solutions. We shall be able to
concurrently search for and find solutions to the issues that exist in the relationship between our two peoples, one example being the issue of the Genocide, of which you are aware. Question
: As you just mentioned, the issue of the Genocide exists between Turkey and Armenia. We, meaning the opinion of Turkish society, are not limited by the Armenians of Armenia. We see three groups
of Armenians: Diaspora, Armenians of Turkey, and Armenia. What are your thoughts? During these deliberations, whom must Turkey consider? And the Armenians, whom do they consider – the Turkish
government or…? As you know, this issue is being discussed in certain Turkish intellectual circles. In
different universities, specifically the University of Bilgi, this issue has been discussed during different symposia where the Armenian Patriarch Mutafian was also present. Taking the aforementioned into
consideration, I want to ask two questions: Who must represent the Turkish and Armenian sides and what steps must be taken? And the second question, how do you evaluate the atmosphere of democratic debate
in Turkey? His Holiness Karekin II: We are one people; dispersed throughout the world. However, we are a
people that have statehood. And naturally, the Republic of Turkey can discuss these issues and find solutions with the Republic of Armenia. For 90 years, the issue of the Genocide has been researched by
the academics of the world, and manifold volumes have been written. For our people, the Genocide is not
a matter for research – it is a reality of fact that happened, which must be recognized. That (recognition) is naturally the desired option, but a negative position can also be taken on this issue.
If academic conferences in Turkey are intended to present the actuality of the Genocide to Turkish society,
then it shall be possible to welcome them. If they are politically motivated, to further the position of denial,
naturally that won't have a positive influence on resolving this issue. We are satisfied to see that in the life of
Turkish society, within democratization processes, people are speaking and reflecting on the issue of the Genocide during the First World War to a certain extent. Question
: During his meeting with the governor of Istanbul, the Catholicos stated, "A certain amount of progress is noticeable in Turkish society. If necessary steps are taken, everything can be much better."
These words were translated by (Armenian Patriarch) Mutafian. What is lacking in the life of Turkish society and what did you have in mind? His Holiness Karekin II
: During our conversation with the governor, we have said that we are pleased, that in the life of ethnic and religious minorities, as it relates to the Armenian Apostolic Church and the
Ecumenical Patriarchate, some concerns are receiving their positive solutions. We can see that for many
decades, it was impossible to renovate the (headquarters of the) Patriarchate, and today we see it restored.
Permission has been granted, and churches are being repaired. However, we noted that there are a certain
number of other concerns, the resolution of which would benefit the greater strengthening of community life.
For example, among these issues are property rights and organizational matters for educational activities. Question
: The Catholicos stated that the two states must discuss the issue of the Genocide. However in recent times, discussions were held in Turkey when two Armenians of Turkey participated, among them
Hrant Dink. The law which was being debated in France, whereby the deniers of the Genocide would be
held criminally liable, was opposed by nine Turkish intellectuals who sent a letter to France. They asserted
that expressing a viewpoint about the Genocide must not have consequences. This is one example of the fact that Turkey and Armenia are not alone in debating this issue, and that there are other states, which
make decisions in their parliaments about the Genocide. In this regard, the issue assumed an international character. What is your opinion? Is it correct for other states to be drawn into this matter?
His Holiness Karekin II: Genocide against any nation is not limited to the life or borders of one people.
Genocide does not recognize ethnicity. Genocide envelopes all of mankind. And for that reason, when similar actions are being committed in any corner of the world, states and nations raise their voices in
condemnation, to prevent similar incidents in the life of mankind. Only in this manner will it be possible to keep mankind free from similar tragedies.
Regarding the first part of the question, that should only Turkey and Armenia be concerned with this issue,
we wish to further clarify that the Armenian people have statehood. But the issue concerns all Armenians. Armenians dispersed throughout the world. Every single individual Armenian. However the body that
represents the rights of the nation, and guarantees those rights, obviously, is the state. Question: The Catholicos says that the issue of the Genocide for Armenian society is not one that needs
research, rather it is reality. Does this position not obstruct the resolution of this issue, perhaps, since the
Turkish side continues to deny the Genocide? In other words, is it not possible to study the Genocide? His Holiness Karekin II
: Obviously, if Turkey denies (the Genocide), it is impossible to resolve this issue. If the facts are present, then what's the point in discussing the necessity to debate the facts? There
must be the will to record, confirm and accept the facts. Question: What do you propose as a way of resolving this issue? His Holiness Karekin II
: We believe that as many states and countries have done, Turkey also has the capability to conduct the corresponding studies, and add its name to that list of many countries, by
recognizing the Armenian Genocide. Armenia has never held similar deliberations with any of the other countries who have recognized and condemned the Armenian Genocide. Because the facts exist, they can
be studied, and based upon those facts, a decision and position can be made. This cannot be or be proposed to be an issue which necessitates discussions. Question
: You say that to keep humanity free from the repetition of similar sorrows, that they must be studied and accepted. But have you ever made a statement regarding the events taking place in Iraq, which
is very close to both Turkey and Armenia? As you are aware, the intervention of the United States of America is present there. What do you think about this, and what are you doing about it?
His Holiness Karekin II: We as a Church, express our voice of indignation on every occasion when a hand is raised against the greatest treasure of God's creation – human life. Question
: You visited the seminary on the Island of Halki. What are you thoughts, since that seminary is not operating at present? His Holiness Karekin II
: I am pleased with the process of democratization which is taking place today in the Republic of Turkey. And I am certain that in time, all those issues will find their positive solutions. Question
: Did you like Istanbul? His Holiness Karekin II: We have not had the opportunity to see Istanbul. But in these past few days,
we mentioned in our remarks that in Istanbul, there are many valuable and beautiful buildings, churches, etc.
However, the most valuable, the most beautiful for me is our people, our community, for whom we are
conducting our Pontifical Visit. Having this as our primary concern, naturally, we have allocated all of our
time for the strengthening of the spiritual life of our people and to the work of reinforcing their faith.
Nevertheless, I am certain that another opportunity will be created, and we shall be able to have the necessary amount of time to see the sights of Istanbul. For example, yesterday, we were able to visit the
Dolmabahçe palace museum and the Hagia Sophia, which greatly impressed us. Question: There is a report that you desired to pray when at the Hagia Sophia, but were prohibited from doing so.
His Holiness Karekin II: We are not aware of any such occurrence. Question: From the first day of your visit, there have been protest demonstrations. What do you think about this?
His Holiness Karekin II: The protest demonstrations in no way affected neither our mood nor our mission. We would prefer that there be no place for similar demonstrations in the relationship between our
two peoples. We are destined to live side by side as neighbors, and therefore it is necessary to cultivate,
educate and nurture appropriate relationships between neighboring peoples. I am convinced that in my next
trip, we won't see similar demonstrations or expressions. And even if there are protests such as these, we must understand that we still have work to do, both of us together, to exclude similar occurrences.
Question: During the Eurovision competition, Turkey gave 10 points to Armenia. How do you evaluate this fact? His Holiness Karekin II: We see nothing negative in this. Question
: Is this perhaps a step forward on the part of Turkey? His Holiness Karekin II: Of course, it is a step, which must be positively assessed. God willing, that this
positive course leads us to the resolution of the fundamental issue. Question: Although your visit was not "official" in nature, you were received by the governor of Istanbul.
An occurrence such has this has not happened since 1961. What do you think about this? Do you asses
this as a positive step? Were there any other similar offers? If yes, then for what reason did they not occur? His Holiness Karekin II
: We recognize our meeting with the governor as a display of his appreciation for the Armenian community, and their important contributions and service to the life of Turkish society. We
have not had nor do we have any objections to meeting with any state official, whether the suggestion is
made by our community or by any other entity. There was the concept, at one time, to organize a meeting
with the religious leader of Turkey, but it became unfeasible to bring it to fruition. The reasons being that the congestion of our itinerary for this trip did not provide the opportunity.
We express our thanks for this meeting and for such an open discussion. We wish you all the best. ## ===================================================June 28, 2006 His Holiness Karekin II Completes Pontifical Visit to Istanbul
His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, having completed his first
Pontifical Visit to Istanbul, returned to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin in the early morning hours of
June 28. The seven-day visit included a two day fraternal visit to the Ecumenical Patriarch, followed by five days with the Armenian community of Istanbul and the Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople.
Although His Holiness' flight arrived in Yerevan in the middle of the night, waiting for him in the Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin at 4:00 AM, were hundreds of faithful who had come to welcome him
home. His Holiness' procession was escorted into the Mother Cathedral under the singing of the "Hrashapar" hymn. Standing before the Holy Altar of Descent, the Catholicos of All Armenians offered
prayers of thanks to heaven and thereafter conveyed the unforgettable and warm impressions from his
pontifical visit to all those present. His Holiness Karekin II joyfully reflected on the enthusiastic reception he
received from the Armenian community of Istanbul, as expression of their love and devotion to the Holy Armenian Apostolic Church and the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.
His Holiness stated, "Glory and thanksgiving to God. We return from our pontifical visit to our sons and
daughters in Constantinople with a content heart. Our soul was filled with joy to personally see and meet
our faithful children, their enthusiastic devoted faith, and their patriotic spirit. We communed with 600 years of history and treasures of the Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople."
The Pontiff of All Armenians stated with contentment that the Armenian community of Istanbul, a community that lives, breathes and speaks Armenian, is active today with a vibrant national life. The
community has 39 churches, 17 Armenian schools and many institutions, the largest of which is the Holy
All-Savior National Hospital. His Holiness also fondly recalled his meetings with Armenian intellectuals and youth of Istanbul.
As the visit of His Holiness was widely covered by the Armenian and Turkish press and media in Turkey, His Holiness spoke of the press conference convened in Istanbul on Sunday, June 25, following the
Pontifical Divine Liturgy, during which the Armenian Genocide was discussed. (The full text of the press conference will be available tomorrow on the website of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, www.armenianchurch.org). In reply to the concerns about the prospect that His Holiness' statements on
the Armenian Genocide could negatively affect the attitude of the Turkish authorities towards the Armenians of Turkey, the Catholicos stated, "We do not believe that our thoughts and words can affect the
attitude of the authorities towards our Armenians in Istanbul, because we never expressed hatred or enmity, we simply stated the reality and the truth. Taking into account the process of democratization,
which the Turkish authorities desire to achieve in their country, we also do not believe that extremist
nationalistic forces will succeed in sowing hatred and enmity toward the Armenians or other minorities living in Turkey."
His Holiness continued, stating that as many countries have recognized the Genocide of the Armenians, so too must Turkey recognize the Genocide, for which there exists no need for deliberations.
Regarding the protests that had been organized in Istanbul during his visit, noting that the Turkish authorities
characterized them as the "actions of extremist groups", His Holiness emphasized that in no way did they diminish his impressions from the trip. Due to the unprecedented security measures which were
implemented, they did not obstruct the activities of the Pontifical Visit and generally remained unnoticed by the delegation.
Just before daybreak in Holy Etchmiadzin, as His Holiness concluded his remarks, he once again expressed his appreciation to the Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople and the faithful people of Istanbul
for the warm reception, and offered his prayers for the stability and vibrancy of the Armenian Patriarchate.
The Pontiff of All Armenians also warmly expressed his thanks to all those present who had waited all night long to greet him upon his return to Armenia. ===============================================================June 27, 2006
His Holiness Karekin II in Istanbul: Genocide is Not a Matter for Debate On Sunday, June 25, following a Pontifical Divine Liturgy in the Cathedral of St. Astvatsatsin of the
Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, participated in a press conference organized on the occasion of his visit to Istanbul.
Present for the press conference were both Armenian and Turkish journalists. During the conference, a number of questions were asked regarding the pontifical and inter-church visit of His Holiness.
In response to a question by a Turkish journalist regarding the Genocide of the Armenians, the Catholicos
of All Armenians stated, "The Armenian Genocide is a reality that happened and can never be an item for debate". Regarding a follow-up question about how relations between the Armenian and Turkish peoples
could be improved, the Pontiff of All Armenians stressed the necessity for the Republic of Turkey to come to terms with its past and recognize the Armenian Genocide.
Responding to another question regarding the convening of conferences about the events that occurred in
the final days of the Ottoman Empire during the First World War, His Holiness noted, "It shall be possible
to welcome similar initiatives if they are intended to present the actuality of the Genocide to Turkish society".
During the press conference, His Holiness Karekin II also reflected on his impressions of his visit to Istanbul, and highly appreciated the warm and brotherly spirit of Ecumenical Patriarch His All Holiness
Bartholomew I, as well as expressed his contentment with the Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople and the faithful Armenian sons and daughters who live and work under her spiritual authority. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
June 27, 2006His Holiness Karekin II Celebrates Pontifical Divine Liturgy in Istanbul
On Sunday, June 25, as the culmination of the first Pontifical Visit of the Catholicos of All Armenians to the
Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople, His Holiness Karekin II celebrated a Pontifical Divine Liturgy in
the St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) Cathedral of Istanbul. In attendance for the Divine Liturgy were Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople His Beatitude Archbishop Mesrob Mutafian, high-ranking
archbishops and bishops of the Armenian Church from Armenia and the Diaspora, among them the primates of the dioceses of North America, Germany, Damascus, Romania and Bulgaria, the Vicar General
of the Araratian Pontifical Diocese, the Chancellor of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, representatives of sister Churches, Mr. Karen Mirzoyan (Representative of the Republic of Armenia in Turkey), and
hundreds of Armenian faithful. His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
(Eastern), and His Grace Bishop Vicken Aykazian, Diocesan Legate for the Eastern Diocese and President
of the National Council of Churches of America, assisted His Holiness at the Holy Altar during the Liturgy.
During the sacred Divine Liturgy, His Holiness addressed his message to the faithful, using as the theme of his sermon, the words of Christ: "Because I live, you shall live also." (St. John 14:19).
The Catholicos of All Armenians first offered thanksgiving and glory to the Almighty, for granting him the gift of visiting the
Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople in this pontifical visit, and for the opportunity to offer the liturgy
under the cherished and prayer-filled arches of the historic cathedral with His Beatitude Mesrob and his beloved faithful flock.
As he continued his message, the Pontiff of All Armenians stated, "Christ is alive, as are all who believe in
Him – the Savior of the world Who was crucified for us, buried and rose again on the third day. Our people were taught and raised in this manner. With this belief and by the vision of the Illuminator, our
people built Holy Etchmiadzin on our native soil, received the letters of Mashtots as a heavenly gift, became
firmly established in their Christian identity, and when the time came, accepted 'death with meaning' in the name of that faith, while living and creating with God at their side.
"Truly, our people did not desire to live without God. The testimony of this spiritual reality is presented in
its most compelling manner through the six-century history of the Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople.
The names of the great patriarchs are immortal, who selflessly cared for the people entrusted to them; and
protected, raised and strengthened them with the light of faith, transmitting the noble virtues of their graceful
minds and faithful souls to the generations. Immortalized also are the names of those in the arts, education
and science, as well as their works and contributions. Treasures created with faith, which draw a wide path
of illumination upon the pages of our history, shaped a path of creation and progress. With the power of faith, the Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople continues to carry the lamp of illumination…
"Being with you during these past few days, we once again had the experience that our people always keep and protect the sacred mystery of a renewing life in their deepest inner spaces. Not even the Armenian
Genocide was able to extinguish that light, when it appeared that life itself would end within the borders of
the Patriarchate. In the trials of our people, the spirit alive with faith found the strength to be reborn and live
yet again, to do good works, create goodness and aspire towards goodness. The greatest inheritance we
received from our forefathers was faith in God, in our Lord Jesus Christ. You, dear ones, and your parents
kept and nurtured the faith in your souls, transforming it into love for one another, laboring for each other and for the glory of our Apostolic Holy Church.
"…Glory to you O Lord, that you directed our footsteps here from the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, and we became the witness to the blossoming national and ecclesiastical life, and faithful and traditional
spirit of our people. We came from our cherished cradle of faith, so that together, Pontiff and people,
through the commemorations, exhortations and traditions of our holy fathers, could testify with our unified
prayer under the halls of this holy church – that our Armenian nation is steadfast and unshakeable in its oath
sealed with God. It is loyal to the holy legacy of its forebears and with its oath of unity with Holy Etchmiadzin."
The Catholicos of All Armenians continued by exhorting the Armenians of Istanbul to continue to create
and flourish with the same dedication and love, keeping all of their national institutions strong and vibrant. His Holiness addressed words of thanks to His Beatitude Mesrob and the members of the Religious
Council of the Patriarchate for the warm reception which had been prepared during these days of his first pontifical visit to Istanbul.
His Holiness also extended his appreciation to the ranks of clergy of the Armenian Patriarchate, to all administrative lay council members and committees, the devoted choir members of the churches, national
organizations and associations, charitable institutions, teachers, artists, and representatives of the Armenian press, for their fidelity to national values and their brave and selfless devotion.
At the conclusion of his fatherly message to the Armenians of Istanbul, His Holiness bestowed His Beatitude Mesrob with two panagias and a pectoral cross from Holy Etchmiadzin as a symbol of the
Pontiff's appreciation for the years of service and dedication of the Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople.
Following the Liturgy, a reception was hosted in the hall of the Patriarchate in honor of His Holiness.
During his remarks, the Pontiff of All Armenians expressed his thanks and appreciation to the chairman and
all members of the Pontifical Visit committee of the Patriarchate for their efforts in successfully planning and implementing a well-organized and most enjoyable visit.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- June 26, 2006 His Holiness Karekin II Meets Governor of Istanbul
On June 23, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, visited Mr. Muammer Güler, Governor of Istanbul, at the governor's office. His Holiness was accompanied by His
Beatitude Archbishop Mesrob Mutafian, Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople; His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern); Mr. Karen
Mirzoyan, Representative of the Republic of Armenia in Turkey; and Mr. Bedros Shirinoghlu, Chairman of the Pontifical Visit Committee.
The Catholicos of All Armenians expressed his happiness to be in Istanbul through the joint invitation of the
Ecumenical Patriarch and the Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople, and noted his pleasure to have the opportunity to closely know the Armenian community of Istanbul.
In his remarks, His Holiness Karekin II stated his awareness of the achievements of the Armenian
community of Istanbul in its national and spiritual life. His Holiness also noted that there are certain issues
which exist in the Armenian community related to properties and educational matters, and expressed his hope that they will find their positive solutions.
Governor Güler welcomed the visit of the Pontiff of All Armenians to Istanbul, and conveyed his hope that the relations between the Armenian and Turkish peoples will improve.
At the conclusion of the meeting, His Holiness Karekin II, reflecting on the relations between the two peoples, confirmed that the Armenian people have the same desires to see them improved and stressed his
conviction that relations will progress based on the principles of justice. During the meeting, they also discussed matters related to the Pontifical Visit of the Catholicos of All
Armenians and the activities of the governor's office. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
June 24, 2006
Pontiff of All Armenians Visits Churches and National Institutions in Istanbul On June 23, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians and His
Beatitude Archbishop Mesrob Mutafian, Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople, accompanied by the pontifical entourage, visited the Church of St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) in Baklkyugh, Istanbul, as
well as the Dadian National Academy adjacent to the church. Following the "Hrashapar" service in the sanctuary and His Holiness' message of blessing to the faithful, the
Catholicos of All Armenians and the Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople were escorted to the hall of the
school and enjoyed a program presented by the students of the Academy. The St. Astvatsatsin Church and the Dadian Academy are located in a section of Istanbul which has the second highest Armenian population.
His Holiness Karekin II spoke to the 400 students, as well as the teachers, administrators and hundreds of
faithful, emphasizing the important role that the Armenians of Istanbul have played in the life of the nation
for more than 500 years, noting that they have brought honor to the Armenian people through their spiritual
and cultural activities. His Holiness also placed great importance on the church and school being located
adjacent to one another, and commended the parish council, the teaching staff and administration of the
community for their efforts. The Catholicos of All Armenians also congratulated the students for their skills,
devotion and talents, and invited them to travel to Armenia and visit the Armenian Church Youth Centers operating under the auspices of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and the Armenian General Benevolent
Union. The entourage next traveled to the Holy Savior National Hospital, where they were greeted by Mr. Bedros
Shirinoghlu, chairman of the Pontifical Visit Committee and a trustee of the hospital. His Beatitude Mesrob
introduced the history of the hospital to the guests, informing them that it was established more than 175
years ago and remains through the present day as the largest Armenian national institution in Turkey. His
Beatitude also noted that it was the first hospital founded in the Ottoman Empire, and continues its mission
of providing health care to the Armenian community of the country. The Holy Savior Hospital, in addition to providing health care to children and adults, also operates a home for the aged and a center for
physically disabled children. The Armenian Pontiff visited with the patients, met with the physicians and health care staff, as well as the
administrators and the trustees of the medical center. In the hospital's chapel, His Holiness presided during a requiem service offered in memory of all past benefactors of the institution.
In his remarks, the Catholicos of All Armenians extended his words of thanks and appreciation to the Patriarch and the trustees of the center, and noted that the service provided by the hospital is the best
expression of Christian teaching and love. His Holiness emphasized that every individual is called to serve
his fellow man, and that the Holy Savior Hospital, through its humanity and philanthropy, is providing the best example of that Christian mission of service.
The Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople next escorted His Holiness Karekin II and the entourage on a tour of the hospital's museum, following which the guests were hosted to a lunch by the trustees.
In the afternoon, the Pontiff of All Armenians visited the Church of St. Gevork in Samatia, which until the year 1641, had been the headquarters of the Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople. His Holiness
Karekin II blessed the countless Armenians who had gathered to see him and kiss his holy right hand, and
extended his words of love and encouragement to the faithful. The Catholicos of All Armenians also visited the historic Sahakian National Academy, which is located adjacent to the church, and met with the
students, teachers and administrators of the institution.
=================================================================June 23, 2006 Pontiff of All Armenians Welcomed in the Cathedral of the Holy Mother of God in Istanbul 
On the evening of June 22, having concluded the Fraternal Visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate and His All Holiness Bartholomew I, the Catholicos of All Armenians officially began the Pontifical Visit to the
Armenian Patriarchate and the Armenian community of Istanbul. His Holiness and the pontifical entourage visited the Mother Cathedral of St. Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) in Kumkapi, Istanbul, and were
greeted by a "Hrashapar" service welcoming the Pontiff. In attendance were high-ranking clergy of the Armenian Patriarchate, representatives of Sister Churches, Mr. Karen Mirzoyan (Representative of the
Republic of Armenia in Turkey), and countless Armenian faithful, many who had come to see the Catholicos of All Armenians for the first time.
Following the traditional service of greeting a hierarch, His Beatitude Archbishop Mesrob Mutafian, Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople, warmly greeted the Catholicos of All Armenians and welcomed him
to Istanbul on behalf of the Armenian Patriarchate, the clergy and faithful. His Beatitude then invited His Holiness to offer his words of blessing to the assembled.
His Holiness addressed his message of blessing and love, stating in part, "...We are with you now with our
prayers of thanksgiving and praise. At this historic and emotional moment, we turn our gaze to heaven with
the prayer of our holy forefathers: 'King of Peace, Our Lord Jesus Christ, keep and protect Your people under Your holy and revered Cross in peace'.
"This cherished prayer has resounded throughout the halls of this sanctuary for centuries as well. It has
been uttered from the lips of many courageous and glorious clergymen, who became martyrs of the faith;
the good shepherds who devoted their lives to God for the flock entrusted to them, and with the life-giving
light of faith, led them to creativity, loyalty and fidelity. Five Patriarchs of Constantinople, by the will of God
and the nation, were called to become Catholicos of All Armenians – the first servant of our Holy Church.
Only after kneeling down before this Holy Altar and asking for the intercession of the Holy Mother of God
on behalf of the Armenian nation, did they depart to sit on the Throne of the Illuminator. In difficult times, our luminous and brave-hearted Pontiffs protected our people and kept them gathered around Holy
Etchmiadzin with the hope and belief in salvation. And now from the Throne of the Illuminator – the holy
cradle of our faith – Holy Etchmiadzin, we have come to see you, our dearly beloved sons and daughters, to extend our blessings and love to you all. We have come so that Pontiff and flock can be united once
again with the same oath of our holy fathers, and unite our prayers to their appeals for the peace of mankind and for keeping all Armenians dispersed throughout the world reinforced in faith and unified.
"...For six hundred years, the churches of the Armenian Patriarchate kept the belief in Christ and hope of salvation alive and vibrant in the souls of our people. For six hundred years, our mother tongue was
proclaimed undefiled in our schools, where our national traditions transformed into the spirit of our people.
Connected with the Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople are the brightest achievements of our culture – in literature, art, music and architecture...
"It is with these emotions that we have come to visit you, to see our ancient, incense-filled churches, which
remain vibrant through your presence. We came to see our educational and cultural institutions, which continue to remain alight through your vigilant efforts. We came to bless your lives, to encourage your
devoted spirits, your resolute will and selfless allegiance, through which you are firmly standing on the foundation-stone established by Saint Gregory our Illuminator, keeping the light of Holy Etchmiadzin
sparkling in your souls, which has always shined and glowed in the monasteries and churches of the Patriarchate.
"We have brought the boundless yearning and love of the Mother See of All Armenians to you, dear faithful, and greetings from your brothers and sisters in Armenia, Artsakh and the Dispersion, who are
always with you in their warmest of prayers. We have also brought the optimism of the reborn new life of
our homeland, and our people's hopes for strengthening our unified spiritual and cultural life. Our Church is
strong and alive with all of her children, and steadfast in the path of her mission, which is the same yesterday, today and always – to lead the small flock of the Armenians toward the life-giving and saving
light of faith, toward God Who makes peace and creates beneficence. Let us stay loyal to the Holy Gospel of our Lord, loyal to our Holy Church, and loyal to our inherited appeal for peace."
In his remarks, His Holiness also offered prayers to heaven, asking for God to grant rest to the souls of the
Armenian Patriarchs of Constantinople of blessed memory, as well as long years of health and fruitful reign to His Beatitude Archbishop Mesrob Mutafian.
At the conclusion of the service, the special Pontifical Encyclical of the Catholicos of All Armenians was read, wherein His Grace Bishop Aram Ateshian, a member of the Brotherhood of Holy Etchmiadzin and
the Armenian Patriarchate of Constantinople, was elevated to the rank of "Archbishop" by His Holiness Karekin II. Archbishop Ateshian was commended by the Pontiff of All Armenians for his devotion and
efforts as Chairman of the Religious Council and Sacristan of the Armenian Patriarchate.
===============================================================June 23, 2006 His Holiness Karekin II Visits Historical Islands in the Sea of Marmara
On the morning of June 22, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians; His All Holiness Bartholomew I, Archbishop of Constantinople and Ecumenical Patriarch; and His
Beatitude Mesrob Mutafian, Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople, visited Halki Island in the Sea of Marmara, off the western coast of Turkey. The island houses the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Monastery
and the famous Theological School of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. The metropolitan abbot of the monastery greeted the three hierarchs as they entered the grounds and
extended his message to His Holiness Karekin II, noting that it was with great honor, respect and love that
the clergy and population of the island welcomed the Catholicos of All Armenians to Halki. The abbot
stated that the visit of the Pontiff of All Armenians was a visible manifestation of the brotherly warmth and
love between the Greek and Armenian communities of Istanbul, and thanked him for honoring them with the visit.
His Holiness expressed his thanks for the warm welcome, noting that he knows how very important it is to prepare a new generation of young men to serve the Church and people, and appreciates the wonderful
opportunity given to church leaders to train and educate individuals to dedicate their lives to God. His
Holiness stressed the importance of hope in the struggle of life and in achieving the mission to which Christ
has called all of us. As the Greek seminary has been closed by the orders of Turkish authorities since the 1970's, the Catholicos of All Armenians specifically noted that he prays for the re-opening of the
Theological Seminary located on the island and that the Armenian Church stands alongside their sister Church in their difficulties.
The Armenian and Greek delegations then visited the historic library on the island and toured the grounds of the monastery.
In the afternoon, the entourage traveled to Kinali, an island with a high Armenian population, and visited the
Armenian church of St. Gregory the Illuminator. Many Armenians had gathered in the church to greet the arrival of His Holiness Karekin II, His All Holiness Bartholomew I and His Beatitude Mesrob and to
participate in the joint prayers of the hierarchs. The Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople offered his kind
words of welcome to both the Catholicos of All Armenians and the Ecumenical Patriarch and expressed his happiness for this first Pontifical Visit of His Holiness Karekin II to Turkey.
His Holiness Karekin II noted that his presence in Turkey was through the joint invitation of the Ecumenical
Patriarch and the Armenian Patriarch, and stressed his happiness for this unique opportunity to pray together and strengthen the relationship between the Armenian and Greek Churches, which will lead to
greater cooperation and collaboration between sister Churches. His Holiness extended his pontifical blessings to the assembled Armenians and offered his prayers for peace and love in the world. The
Catholicos also noted his admiration for the Armenian community of Istanbul, stating that they are well known throughout Armenian life for their fidelity to the Mother Church, to Holy Etchmiadzin, and their
steadfast faith and love for national, cultural and spiritual traditions. His Holiness spoke of the countless
contributions made by the Armenians of Istanbul throughout history, and that today, they are the ones who
help keep the Christian presence of Istanbul alive. He concluded by exhorting them to remain steadfast in
their faith and hope, on the paths of serving our Lord Jesus Christ, the Church and Armenian community.
The Armenian Pontiff then invited His All Holiness Bartholomew I to join him and Patriarch Mesrob at the
Holy Altar of the Church of St. Gregory, where they gave their joint blessings to the faithful. Following the service, a reception was hosted in the garden on the grounds of the church in honor of the guests.
================================================================
Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, Information Services  His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, His All Holiness Bartholomew I, Ecumenical Patriarch, His Beatitude Archbishop
Mesrob Mutafian, Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople, flanked by members of the Armenian Church delegation.
His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, and His Beatitude Archbishop Mesrob Mutafian, Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople, in the Armenian Patriarchate in Istanbul.
June 21, 2006
First Day of Pontifical Visit of His Holiness Karekin II to Turkey On the evening of June 20, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians
arrived in Istanbul on his first Pontifical Visit to Turkey. Upon arrival at the Istanbul airport, His Holiness
and his entourage were greeted by His Beatitude Archbishop Mesrob Mutafian, Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople; high-ranking clergy of the Armenian Patriarchate; two metropolitan archbishops
representing the Greek Ecumenical Patriarchate; Mr. Karen Mirzoyan, Representative of the Republic of Armenia in Turkey; and representatives of the Armenian community of Istanbul.
During the official reception and dinner at the Armenian Patriarchate, His Beatitude Mesrob greeted the Catholicos of All Armenians and welcomed him and his accompanying clergymen to Istanbul. His Holiness
Karekin II offered thanks to Almighty God for having granted him this opportunity to be in Istanbul for a
Pontifical Visit, to meet the faithful Armenian people of this historic city and extend to them blessings and
love from the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. His Holiness also noted his happiness for the fraternal visit to the Ecumenical Greek Patriarch, His All Holiness Bartholomew I.
On the morning of June 21, the Pontiff of All Armenians, accompanied by His Beatitude Mesrob Mutafian and the members of the pontifical entourage, visited the headquarters of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and
participated in Morning Services at the Greek Mother Cathedral. At the conclusion of morning services, His Holiness and the Armenian delegation were escorted to the throne room of the Ecumenical Patriarchate
during the singing of the Armenian Church hymn, "Rejoice, O Church". In the presence of the members of Holy Synod of the Greek Church, Ecumenical Patriarch His All Holiness
Bartholomew I, greeted His Holiness Karekin II with a fraternal embrace, followed by his official and warm address of welcome.
Thereafter, the Catholicos of All Armenians extended his greetings of love to the Ecumenical Patriarch, noting in part, "...Our predecessors of blessed memory have visited Your All Holiness and your revered
predecessors. Today, we are visiting you with brotherly love and a joyous heart. We are visiting a people
and a Church, who share with us the inheritance of Christ, His witness and His love. We visit a Church, with whom we have shared a history of accomplishments and achievements, persecutions, suffering and
martyrdom, prayer and witness, and which is alive in our hearts and minds today. We are visiting a Church, which through her rich past and present, continues the testimony of the Lord with love and peace.
"By visiting Your All Holiness, we are confident, that through our prayers and discussions, and during our
meetings, we will enjoy the gifts of the love and brotherhood of Christ, which we shall transmit as a blessing to our faithful sons and daughters."
In his remarks, the Catholicos of All Armenians also recalled the historic visit of the Ecumenical Patriarch to
Armenia in November of 2001, during the jubilee festivities surrounding the 1700th Anniversary of Official
Christianity in Armenia. His Holiness offered prayers to heaven, asking God to "illuminate and provide
warmth with the peace flowing from the Eternal Light of the world, to the souls and hearts of all, benefiting
the strengthening of our faith, and the reinforcement of peace, reconciliation and friendship among all nations, religions and churches, founded upon the timeless principles of justice and truth."
His Holiness Karekin II concluded his remarks by praying for the cooperation between the two Churches
to greater flourish under the blessings and protection of our Lord Jesus Christ, for the love and glory of His Holy Church.
At the conclusion of the official reception, a personal meeting occurred between the two delegations, whereupon general inter-church and specifically Armenian and Greek relations were discussed.
Later that day, the Ecumenical Patriarch hosted the Armenian delegation to an official lunch organized in honor of the Catholicos of All Armenians. ================================================================PRESS RELEASE June 20, 2006 His Holiness Karekin II Departs on Pontifical Visit to Turkey Today, June 20,
His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians departs for Istanbul, Turkey
for a seven-day Pontifical Visit. His Holiness is traveling to Turkey upon the joint invitation of His Beatitude
Archbishop Mesrob Mutafian, Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople; and His All Holiness Bartholomew I, Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople.
During this first Pontifical Visit of His Holiness Karekin II to Turkey, the Catholicos of All Armenians will
visit Armenian churches and holy shrines, extend his pontifical blessings to the Armenian community of Istanbul, and meet with Armenian intellectuals and young men and women. On Sunday, June 25, His
Holiness will celebrate a Pontifical Divine Liturgy in the Armenian Patriarchate's Cathedral of the Holy Mother of God.
For two days during the trip, His Holiness will also be the guest of the Ecumenical Patriarch in a fraternal
visit. His Holiness will have a number of ecumenical meetings in the Armenian Patriarchate as well. Also planned is a meeting between the Pontiff of All Armenians and the Governor of Istanbul.
His Holiness is scheduled to return to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin on June 28. Accompanying the Catholicos of All Armenians during the journey is His Eminence Archbishop Dirayr
Mardigian, Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Romania and Bulgaria; His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern); His Eminence
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America; His Eminence Archbishop Karekin Bekdjian, Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Germany; His
Eminence Archbishop Yeznik Petrosian, Director of the Publications Department of the Mother See; His Eminence Archbishop Navasard Ktchoyan, Vicar General of the Araratian Pontifical Diocese; His Grace
Bishop Vicken Aykazian, Diocesan Legate for the Eastern Diocese (USA); His Grace Bishop Arshak Khatchatrian, Chancellor |
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