His Holiness Aram I in Worcester 10 09 2024

Continuing his pontifical visit to the Armenian communities of the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Church in the United States, His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, arrived in Worcester on Tuesday, October 9, 2024, accompanied by his entourage. At Sourp Yerrortutyun (Holy Trinity) Armenian Apostolic Church, His Holiness was warmly received by the parish community under the leadership of the pastor, Very Rev. Fr. Ardag Arabian.
In accordance with Armenian Church tradition, the Hrashapar ceremony was offered upon the entrance of His Holiness into the church. A large gathering of faithful was present for this special occasion, along with representatives of other Christian communities, including Most Rev. Robert Joseph McManus, Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Church in Worcester.
Following the ceremony, Archbishop Anoushavan Tanelian, Prelate, welcomed His Holiness and invited him to offer his remarks to the faithful.
In his message, His Holiness expressed his joy at the warm welcome and at the presence of so many gathered faithful. He especially noted the attendance of leaders from other churches, describing it as a visible sign of ecumenical cooperation. Reflecting on the life of the Church, he observed that although divisions have existed throughout history, the deeper unity of the Church has endured. He emphasized that the purpose of ecumenical efforts is to give practical expression to that unity through mutual respect, common witness, and collaboration. His Holiness also encouraged the faithful to remain close to the house of God, to place their trust in His love, and to continue strengthening the life of the Church. He further commended the service of the Prelate, the parish pastor, and the Worcester community.
In keeping with Armenian Church custom, the faithful then approached His Holiness to receive his pontifical blessing through the traditional Achahampuyr, the reverent kissing of the Catholicos’ right hand.
The church reception was followed by a special luncheon held in honor of His Holiness. During the gathering, remarks were offered and the Sunday School students presented a brief artistic program. The luncheon concluded with words from His Holiness, who praised the devoted ministry of Fr. Ardag Arabian and encouraged the faithful to remain active and engaged in the life and mission of the Church.