His Grace Bishop Hovakim Manoukian, the new Primate of the Armenian Church of the United Kingdom and Ireland, arrived on 27th June to assume his new ministry. “With the blessing of His Holiness and the support of the community, I am looking forward to working with our faithful,” said Bishop Hovakim upon his arrival. His Grace Bishop Hovakim was the founding Primate of the Diocese of Artik in northern Armenia and head of the Ecumenical Relations Department of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

His Grace has already had a busy first week in London. On Sunday, 28th June he presided over the Divine Liturgy at St. Yeghiche Church and get acquainted with the congregation and the Priest in Charge the Very Rev. Fr. Aren Shahinian. In the afternoon, Bishop Hovakim continued his informal discussions and meetings with community leaders at the Homenetmen garden party.

Primate’s Inauguration, 12th July

His Grace Bishop Hovakim will be formally installed as the Primate of the Armenian Church at a solemn ceremony (Hrashapar) following the celebration of the Divine Liturgy on the Fest of Transfiguration on Sunday, 12th July at St. Yeghiche Church. The faithful of the parishes, dignitaries, ecumenical guests and representatives of community organisations will be take part. All Armenians in the UK are invited to take part in this special ceremony and greet the new Primate.