Armenian Apostolic Holy Church The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

On the occasion of the Feast of the Glorious Resurrection of Jesus Christ, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians sent a special Pontifical Message to the Armenian Community of Iraq, addressed to His Eminence Archbishop Avak Assadourian, Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Iraq. 

The Pontifical Letter states, in part: "Indeed, our people have seen the horrors of war, frequently they have rebuilt their homes and with faith they have burned their hearth-fires. We continue to pray, that peace will quickly find its natural place on the ancient soil of Iraq, and that the country, which has been home to a great number of our people for centuries, will rapidly re-find her vital strength. 

"We pray for all of you everyday, that you may be brave when faced with the difficulties and fears, and strengthened with faith - Primate, Priest and Flock - continue to live and create with the invincible spirit of your forefathers, and keep alert and vigorous your community and parish life, as consolation and joy to our people dispersed throughout the world. 

"From the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, with our warm Pontifical love, we send our blessings to you all, wishing that the graces of the Lord?s wondrous Resurrection always remain in your homes, families, and community life." 

In response to the request of the Diocesan Primate and Diocesan Council, and considering the current dire and difficult situation in Iraq, His Holiness Karekin II has allowed for this year?s Celebration of Easter within the Diocese of Iraq to occur according to the Old Calendar (April 27). During the celebration of Divine Liturgy on Sunday, April 27, the Diocesan Primate and parish priests will read the Pontifical Message of His Holiness to the faithful of Iraq.