Armenian Apostolic Holy Church The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

From the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, We extend Our Blessings to the officers and soldiers of our Armed Forces, and all our people, on the occasion of Armed Forces Day.

The Armenian army was formed during the years of re-establishment of our independence, became the bulwark and guardian of the revived Armenian statehood, the guarantor of the peaceful and safe life of our people. With the courageous deeds of our brave commanders and soldiers, as well as with the struggle of our people supporting the army, Artsakh was liberated, and the Armenians of Artsakh had the opportunity to build their independent life.

The disastrous 44-day Artsakh war, the harassments on Armenia's borders in September of last year, the challenges faced and the most serious defense issues have put our country and people in front of new imperatives. In this difficult situation, the modernization of the army in accordance with the standards and requirements of the time is of primary and urgent importance. It is primary and urgent to bring together all the national potential so that the Armenian Army can quickly overcome the disastrous consequences caused by the war, heal the wounds and pains of irreparable losses, and avoid such tragedies as we experienced weeks ago. We believe that the Armenian army will find its way to glory and can be indomitable and victorious in fulfilling its sacred mission.

We pray from the bottom of our hearts for all the brave men who accepted the crown of martyrdom for the defense of the motherland. We ask the Heavenly Lord to give comfort to the souls broken by losses and sorrows. May the Heavenly Lord shed His Blessings and mercy to all our people in the Homeland and in the Diaspora. “To all those loved by God in Rome, called to be saints: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ! (Rome 1.7)  today and always. Amen.