Coptic Orthodox Church Pilgrims Visited Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin
06.09.2017
On September 6, in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians; received a group of Coptic Orthodox Church pilgrims led by Bishop Youssef, Diocesan Primate of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States.
The Catholicos of All Armenians expressed joy on the occasion of the pilgrimage to Armenia by the faithful of a Sister Church, stressing that it will enable them to connect with the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of the Armenian Church
His Holiness reflected on the warm and friendly relations between the Armenian Apostolic and Coptic Orthodox Churches, fondly recalling his visit to Egypt and visits of the Coptic Church Pontiffs to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.
The Catholicos of All Armenians also spoke about the strong faith of the Coptic people and their love for Christ, referring to the difficulties and challenges facing Egypt today, when children of the faithful continue to be martyred for their faith. His Holiness expressed the support of the Armenian Church to the Sister Church Patriarch, clergy and faithful, noting that they are always in his prayers.
Bishop Youssef expressed deep gratitude to His Holiness for the warm reception and Pontifical blessing, underlining that the pilgrims were visiting Armenia for the first time: the blessed land where St. Gregory the Illuminator had lived and preached, who is also remembered by the Coptic Church.
The Bishop conveyed to His Holiness the warm greetings and best wishes of His Holiness Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark and leader of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. Bishop Youssef also spoke about the close ties and partnerships between the Sister Church Dioceses in the United States.
At the conclusion of the meeting, His Holiness asked Almighty God's abundant blessings and mercy for the Coptic Church and her faithful.
