Message of His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians on Armenian Independence Day
21.09.2024
On the occasion of the sacred feast of independence, from the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin we convey our Patriarchal blessings and best wishes to all our people.
More than three decades ago, our people reaffirmed their independent statehood with the vision and commitment to live with the sacred values handed down by their ancestors, to build the bright future of the motherland. In this noble aspiration, the children of my nation jointly faced many difficulties and tribulations, recorded significant achievements and progress.
Today, our country and people are going through new trials: Artsakh is occupied, our children of Artsakh are displaced, and the peace on the borders of Armenia is unstable. Again we are facing security issues and new threats.
In order to strengthen our state, to face external and internal challenges, it is imperative to be united with the Lord's love, so that we can rediscover the path of glorious victories and successes. Thus, let's value the gift of having an independent state and put the national, state and universal interest above all.
Relying on God, let us build our country with new testimonies of works of faith, hope and love, and with our dedicated efforts, let us realize our national dreams, becoming worthy of the praise of the psalmist. "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord" (Ps. 32:12).
Our prayers to the Almighty God is to keep our homeland peaceful and safe, to lead our people on the paths of justice and solidarity, granting a safe and prosperous life to our nation in our homeland and in the diaspora.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us and with everyone. Amen.
With the blessings
KAREKIN II
CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS
