HIS HOLINESS ARAM I CONTINUES HIS PASTORAL VISIT TO THE ARMENIAN COMMUNITY IN CANADA

ANTELIAS, Toronto (Canada) – On 24 June 2010, His Holiness Aram I, the Archbishops, Bishops and Priests accompanying him arrived in Toronto. The Dean of the Cathedral and Parish Priest, Very Rev Meghrik Parikian, members of the Church Council and other representatives met him at the VIP Lounge of the airport.

In the evening, His Holiness and his entourage arrived at the St. Mary’s Church, where he was welcomed by the community and led in procession into the Church by the priests, the church-choir and the students of the Armenian school. After official welcome speeches and at the end of the evening service his Holiness addressed the faithful and said: “I thank God for the presence of an active community surrounding the Church, because the Church is the Church of the people. I also want to express my joy at the presence of all the children and youth attending the Armenian School. An active church, a lively school and good functioning community organizations enrich and deepen our identity in host communities. I pray God that you continue with the same enthusiasm confessing the faith of our church and preserving our cultural heritage.”

When the message was over, all those present, including children greeted His Holiness Aram I and received his blessings.

Catholicos Aram I and the clergy then were invited to a dinner in the Church Center. After formal speeches by representatives, His Holiness invited those present to share their concerns and ask him questions. The evening came to its conclusion after a heart-to-heart dialogue.

In the coming days Catholicos Aram I will meet with Political Authorities, Ecumenical Leaders and assist social and cultural activities organized by the Armenian community in Southern Ontario. 

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