Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II Sends Message on May 28

The Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II has sent his patriarchal blessing and well-wishes to the Armenian people worldwide on the occasion of Republic Day, according to the information department of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

Karekin II reminded that our people, who survived the Armenian Genocide, forged the victories of Sardarapat, Bash-Aparan, and Gharakilisa in May with strong faith and an unyielding spirit in the face of adversities, thus opening a new enlightening chapter in their history with the establishment of the First Republic.

“Today, the threats to the security of Armenia and the safety of its border territories, as well as the sovereignty of Artsakh, have created profound concerns in the national discourse and the life of the entire Armenian nation. The way to confront the actions taken against our homeland and people, as well as the expansionist aspirations, is our united struggle, solidarity, and determination,” the message states.

Commemorating the reaffirmation of independence and the declaration of the First Republic, His Holiness suggests drawing inspiration and strength from the freedom-loving spirit and heroic deeds of our ancestors, rejecting and removing hatred and contradictions from our lives, and strengthening our national unity.

“Let us be filled with determination to defend the right of self-determination of our people in the besieged Artsakh, steadfast peace, and our dignified life,” he stated.

He sends his prayers to the Almighty, asking for support in overcoming the challenges we face and establishing a prosperous and enlightened future for the nation and homeland.

It is worth recalling that in 1918, the Armenian people, subjected to genocide, managed to fight against a large Turkish army in Sardarapat, achieving victory and proving their right to existence. The Battle of Sardarapat took place on May 26, 1918, and two days later, on May 28, the First Republic of Armenia was proclaimed.