One of the greatest initiatives of the Ministry of Diaspora of the Republic of Armenia is the “Ari Tun” Program for homeland recognition. Thanks to this program, young Armenians of the Diaspora meet, become friends, learn from each other, consult and share their knowledge, as well as their successes and achievements in the field of education. The “Ari Tun” Program also serves as a unique platform for the establishment of friendships. Throughout the past eight years of its existence, this beloved and highly popular program has also helped young Armenians fall in love and tie the knot by organizing the traditional Armenian wedding. One of the touching stories is the baptism ceremony that was held at St. Hripsime Church in Etchmiadzin. The story traces back to the “Ari Tun” Program. Sisters Nushik and Anushik (baptized as Gaiane and Hripsime) of the Tsalka region of Georgia were baptized in Armenia, and they chose Khachik Hovhannisyan from Ararat to be their godfather. One of the sisters was hosted by the family of Khachik Hovhannisyan. Later, the sister told her family about the generosity of the family and suggested that her parents organize her and her sister’s baptism ceremony in Armenia and choose Khachik Hovhannisyan as their godfather, and Hovhannisyan gladly agreed. Khachik Hovhannisyan elaborated during my interview for Hayern Aysor.

Khachik Hovhannisyan: “Two years ago, my childhood friend, Chief of Staff of the Ministry of Diaspora of the Republic of Armenia Firdus Zakaryan brought a group of children to our village of Avshar, sent them to host families and asked if I wanted to host any one of the children in my home. I gladly agreed and hosted two children. One of them wanted me to become her godfather, and I agreed with great pleasure. Today the children and I are fulfilling our dream. I am glad that I am able to make my small contribution to this pro-national program. Before the baptism, I have been a godfather and have godchildren, but the symbol of this baptism ceremony is that my godchildren are from Georgia. The baptism ceremony is also very symbolic in that the children are being baptized in Etchmiadzin. It is as if they are making a pilgrimage. Thanks to the “Ari Tun” Program and these children, our families became friends, and the program helped establish a beautiful bridge between Armenia and the Diaspora. This program of the Ministry of Diaspora for homeland recognition is truly commendable. It helps young Armenians of the Diaspora get to know their Homeland, enjoy seeing all the colors and tasting the goods in a traditional Armenian atmosphere within host families and feeling the warmth of the sun in Armenia, just like they would within their families. The “Ari Tun” Program is also like a unique basin for baptism. I am cordially ready to host more children. The young Armenians abroad are also our children. The doors of the Homeland and our home are always open for them.”

After these heartfelt words, the children being baptized and their parents expressed their gratitude for the baptism and the friendship that has just been established.

Karine Avagyan