On September 22, at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians received Canadian-Armenian pilgrims accompanied by leader of the Armenian Diocese of Canada, His Eminence, Fr. Bishop Abgar Hovakimian, as reported the information system of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin to Hayern Aysor.

Introducing the Canadian-Armenians visiting the Homeland on the occasion of the 25^th anniversary of Independence of the Republic of Armenia, His Holiness Abgar stated that the Canadian-Armenians and the Armenian Diocese are always a part of the social, public and cultural life in Armenia and assist the Homeland in solving the current problems. “The Mother See and the Homeland are not only symbols, but also the meaning of the real life that our faithful live,” His Holiness said, asking for the Supreme Patriarch’s blessing on behalf of the pilgrims.

Giving his patriarchal blessing to the Armenian pilgrims, the Catholicos of All Armenians highly appreciated the love and dedication of the Armenian Diaspora and particularly of the Armenians of Canada for and to the Homeland and the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. His Holiness expressed confidence that such visits serve as an uplift for the young Armenians who will return with new feelings and will help the Armenian community grow with enthusiasm.

Touching upon the problems facing the Homeland, the Supreme Patriarch noted the following: “We have lived and resisted all our difficulties thanks to our powerful faith and our love for the homeland.” His Holiness attached importance to the active and direct participation of all Armenians in nation-building and enlightenment of the homeland.

The Supreme Patriarch also emphasized that he always prays for Armenians abroad, asking the Lord for His help and solidarity so that they can stay loyal to the holy land, national and spiritual values and live as Armenians.

Expressing his satisfaction with the Canadian-Armenians for their pro-national, love for and dedication to the church, the Supreme Patriarch urged them to raise their children with the same patriotic spirit and make efforts to help the Mother Homeland and the Armenian community of Canada.

At the end of the meeting, the Catholicos of All Armenians wished that the representatives of the Armenian community of Canada maintained their faith, continued to show love for the homeland and enlighten their communities and the Church.