Window Quarterly Vol. 5, No. 1 & 2, 1995 Copyright 1995 [Permission is granted to use, print, reproduce this article provided the following acknowledgment is given: From Window Quarterly 5, 1-2 (1995); ACRAG c. 1995. *** 1995 PONTIFICAL ELECTION IN ETCHMIADZIN A Chronology by Hratch Tchilingirian and Fr. Vazken Movsesian 27 March 1995 KAREKIN II PREPARES TO LEAVE FOR ARMENIA BEIRUT-His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia, is due to arrive in Armenia on Wednesday, March 29, to participate in the upcoming election for catholicos in Etchmiadzin on April 3. In an interview in Antelias with Window Quarterly editor, H.H. Karekin II stated that, "At this critical moment in our history, the upcoming patriarchal election is a chance for all of us to create consensus and unite the will of our nation. This should be a top priority for us. We should rise above our individual, sectarian and narrow ideas and seek the highest good of the Armenian nation. The prestige and dignity of our church and nation are at stake. We should take this historic opportunity and build a prosperous future for our church and nation." According to sources in Lebanon, the election of H.H. Karekin II as the Catholicos of All Armenians is eminent. An Armenian diplomat in Beirut said, "At this juncture in our history we cannot afford to spend time on preparing or grooming a new catholicos. What we need right now is a Catholicos who is ready to assume the leadership of the Armenian Church, and there is a catholicos already." Karekin II has been Catholicos of the Cilician See since 1983 and co-adjutor Catholicos from 1977 to 1983. Last week, here in Beirut, ADL (Ramgavar) party newspaper "Zartong," published a series of editorials opposing and ridiculing the prospect of H.H. Karekin II's election as Catholicos of All Armenians. Meanwhile, the ARF (Dashnagtzootiun) in Beirut has been noticeably silent on this issue. Election Procedure for April 3, 1995 SAN JOSE--The procedure for the upcoming elections of a new Catholicos in Etchmiadzin will be based on previously accepted guidelines with some minor modifications. The rubric of the "Service of Consecration of a Catholicos" states, "When they are prepared to raise someone to the dignity of the office of catholicos of Armenia, first they must hold an election according to the regulations of the universal church.... All the people of Armenian lineage, together with all the clergymen of the church and twelve bishops, shall elect from among them three men...and through scrutiny on the part of the Assembly, one of them who is in all matters acknowledged for good works and for virtuous life as a holy and immaculate man, full of knowledge and wisdom, shall be elected; one who can serve as a shepherd to the people entrusted to him by God." The original of this rubric goes back to the twelfth century. The last National Ecclesiastical Assembly to elect a Catholicos of All Armenians was convened in 1955. The election was conducted much like that of any civic or church organization. On the day of the election, the Assembly convened in the Seminary auditorium as usual. From there, the delegates were led in procession to the Cathedral. At the entrance to the Cathedral, a previously elected credentials committee comprised of clergy and lay members, individually checked the credentials of each delegate before allowing them to enter the Cathedral for the election. When all the delegates had entered, the doors were closed; no one except official delegates and official photographers were permitted into the Cathedral. After the opening of the Assembly, the names of each of the bishops were read. Three persons were elected to monitor the voting procedure and count the ballots. Official ballots had been prepared and were distributed to the delegates. As their names were called, the delegates approached the ballot box one by one and deposited their ballots. After all the delegates had voted, the senior bishop of the committee monitoring the elections read each ballot out loud as the others tabulated the results. Out of 137 possible votes Bishop Vazken Baljian, Primate of Romania and Bulgaria received 125 and was heralded the new Catholicos of All Armenians. Following the funeral of Catholicos Vazken I (August 1994), Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian, Primate of the Western Diocese, was appointed person-in-charge of the 1995 election. His plans for next week's election include the celebration of the divine liturgy prior to the election, requiring all delegates to receive holy communion and take an oath of office. As delegates arrive in Etchmiadzin they will be briefed as to their duties in selecting the next catholicos. 28 March 1995 THE VOTING PROCESS AT ETCHMIADZIN ASSEMBLY LONDON-(Window 03.28.95) When, on April 3, the National Ecclesiastical Assembly convenes in Holy Etchmiadzin, there will be three rounds of voting. In the first round, the names of all the bishops of the Armenian Church will be on the ballot. Forty-five bishops are ex-officio eligible candidates. After the first voting, a ballot of five names will be prepared, consisting of the names of five bishops who received the highest number of votes. At the end of the second round of voting, a final ballot is prepared consisting of the names of the three hierarchs who received the highest number of votes in the second round. Finally, the ballot of three names is put for voting and the one who receives the majority of the votes becomes the new Catholicos of All Armenians. According to the rubric found in the "Service of Consecration of a Catholicos", the candidate for the office of Catholicos should have a virtuous, holy and spotless life. With a record of good deeds. He should further be learned and full of wisdom, capable of leading the people of God. He must profess the orthodox faith and uphold the Holy Tradition of the Church, 'because he is called to the Patriarchal throne of Sts. Thaddeus and Bartholomew and the throne of the Confessor of Christ, St. Gregory the Illuminator, so that he may be worthy to receive the grace and power from Almighty Giver of All Goodness." 30 March 1995 HIS HOLINESS KAREKIN II'S PRESS CONFERENCE IN BEIRUT BEIRUT-(Window News 03.29.95)--On Wednesday, March 29, His Holiness Karekin II left Beirut for Armenia. At Beirut International Airport he was received in the VIP Hall by Lebanese government officials and Armenian members of the Lebanese Parliament. The two delegates representing the Catholicosate of Cilicia for the April 3 patriarchal election-- Mr. Khachig Babikian, Lebanese MP and Archbishop Suren Kataroyan, Primate of Aleppo-- were accompanying Karekin II. At Beirut Airport Karekin II expressed his thoughts to the members of the media: "It is my prayer that God may bless all the lay and clergy delegates who are called to a supreme duty of electing the new Catholicos of All Armenians. We all realize that this election has a unique significance. It is a special event in view of the fact that such an election is taking place in the independent Republic of Armenia. Today our fatherland, our national government, our entire people--both in Armenia and the Diaspora--find themselves before a very significant event in the life of our nation. It is imperative that we feel, think, speak and work as one church, one nation and one national government. "During the last decade, the world has seen enormous changes. Naturally, Armenians are also affected by these changes. We cannot ignore these positive changes. As such, there are so many vital needs facing the Catholicosate of All Armenians. First, each and every Armenian should pray that God may give us strength. Second, every Armenian should think harmoniously, with brotherly love and with the common good of all in mind, so that through this election, the unity of our church may be solidified, especially in terms of her mission, her service to the nation. This entails all spheres of our national life--spiritual, Christian, religious, and social. Our church is not just a proof of our national preservation_like the shell of a tree that protects it_but it is an assurance of national preservation through her spiritual service. As such it is not just a protective shell but it is part of the very core of the tree. "We need a spiritual renewal both in Armenia and the Diaspora. Today, we are standing at a historic cross road. I believe that as we have succeeded in history, we will be successful again this time, as we prepare to face the challenges that are before us. "It is with such thoughts that I look at this important date [April 3] and it is my prayer that the outcome would be a new source of goodness and prosperity for our church, our fatherland, our entire nation and our national government." HIGH RANKING CHURCHMEN GATHER IN ARMENIA YEREVAN-(Window News 03.30.95)--His Holiness Karekin II arrived Yerevan in the early hours of Thursday, March 30. At the Airport he was greeted by His Beatitude Archbishop Torkom Manoogian, Locum Tenens of Etchmiadzin and Patriarch of Jerusalem, as well as senior archbishops of Etchmiadzin and the Diaspora. After a brief reception in the VIP Hall at Yerevan's Zvartnotz Airport, Karekin II and his entourage were escorted to Holy Etchmiadzin. Within few hours after Karekin II's arrival, the Patriarch of Constantinople, His Beatitude Karekin Kazanjian arrived to Armenia and was escorted to Etchmiadzin as well. Already many of the Primates of the Armenian Church are in Armenia, including the Primates of Australia and New Zealand, Argentina, Uruguay, Damascus, New York and California. Most of the delegates from North America and Europe are expected to arrive on Thursday, March 30. ARMENIA'S DIPLOMATIC MISSION TO THE VATICAN ATHENS-(Window News 03.30.95)--On Saturday, March 25, Armenia's Foreign Minister Vahan Papazan presided over the opening ceremony of the Armenian diplomatic mission to the Vatican. During the ceremony, the flag of Armenia was raised in the presence of the Vatican diplomatic representatives as well as the foreign diplomatic corps of the Vatican. The formal ceremonies were followed by a reception at the Levonian College in Rome, where close to 200 guests were invited. While in Rome, Foreign Minister Papazian met with His Holiness Pope John Paul II and discussed the situation in Armenia and Nagorno Karabakh. His Holiness expressed interest and willingness to help Armenia during these difficult times. In an interview with Window Quarterly, Papazian explained that the opening of the Vatican mission is part of the Republic of Armenia's efforts to establish diplomatic relations with all European countries. Armenia's acting ambassador to the Vatican is Armen Sarkissian, who is also senior ambassador to England, Belgium and the European Union. [For the full text of Foreign Minister's interview with editor Hratch Tchilingirian see Window Quarterly Vol. 5, No. 3-5, 1995.] 1 April 1995 NATIONAL ECCLESIASTICAL ASSEMBLY APRIL 3-6 ETCHMIADZIN-(Window News 03.31.95)--The National Ecclesiastical Assembly for the election of a new catholicos will meet from April 3-6. While the agenda has not been made public yet, according to sources in Etchmiadzin, the first day, Monday, will start with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy in the Cathedral of Etchmiadzin and at the conclusion of the Liturgy, the delegates will take an oath. (See Window Election Coverage 03.31.95 for wording of oath.) In the afternoon of the same day, the first session of the Assembly will be held in the patriarchal palace at Etchmiadzin, presided by Archbishop Torkom Manoogian, Locum Tenens and Patriarch of Jerusalem. The meeting will continue on Tuesday. The election of the new catholicos will be held Wednesday. There will be about 420 delegates at the Assembly, representing Armenian communities around the world. While the official roster of the delegates has not been made public, according to numbers gathered by Window News, the geographic distribution of the lay delegates is as follows: 104 Ararat Diocese (Yerevan and vicinity); 140 Russia, Ukraine and CIS countries; 30 Georgia, 10 Karabakh, 25 Dioceses of Shirak, Kukark and Sunik (in Armenia), 48 North America; and the rest from South America, Europe and the Middle East. BISHOPS' MEETING IN ETCHMIADZIN ETCHMIADZIN-(Window News 04.01.95)--On Sunday, April 2, over 35 Archbishops and Bishops of the Armenian Church will meet in Etchmiadzin for a consultative meeting. In preparation for the National Ecclesiastical Assembly, to be held April 3-6, the Bishops will discuss procedural issues as well as problematic areas that need to be ironed out before the Assembly. As the date of the Assembly comes near, the debate among the bishops over who will be the next catholicos is intensifying. Several bishops have been campaigning vigorously to find support among the 420 delegates who will be voting on April 6. WHAT ARE THE PEOPLE SAYING .... KHOR VIRAB-(Window News 03.31.95)--On Saturday, pilgrims from various regions of Armenia came to the monastery of Khor Virab for the celebration of the feast of St. Gregory the Illuminator. Bishop Barkev Martirosian of Artsakh celebrated the Divine Liturgy. The election of the new catholicos was being widely discussed among the faithful outside in the courtyard of the monastery, from where the snowy peak of Mt. Ararat was clearly visible. Two young men, in their mid-thirties, have walked from Yerevan (about 4-5 hours) to Khor Virab with an OUKHD (oath). They came to Khor Virab--the place were St. Gregory the Illuminator was imprisoned for fourteen years in the third century--to pray and ask for Godís blessings for the upcoming election in Etchmiadzin. One of the pilgrims, Vahan Antreasian, 34, said "We came here as pilgrims so that God may bless our nation with a worthy catholicos, who can lead our church in Armenia and around the world." At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, old grandmothers and grandfathers were praying loudly with the same wish. When people on the streets of Yerevan are asked about who will be the next catholicos, they mention two candidates, Catholicos Karekin II and Archbishop Karekin Nersissian of Yerevan. 4 April 1995 THE NATIONAL ECCLESIASTICAL ASSEMBLY STARTS IN ETCHMIADZIN ETCHMIADZIN-(Window 04.03.95)--The National Ecclesiastical Assembly was called to order by Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian, on Monday, with close to 400 delegates in attendance. Hovsepian, designated person in charge of organizing the elections, remarked about the historic significance of this convocation. A solemn Divine Liturgy was celebrated in the main Cathedral of Etchmiadzin with all delegates participating and receiving Holy Communion. Requiem service was held for Catholicos Vazken I followed by a procession to the courtyard of Etchmiadzin where the remains of the late catholicos are buried. Archbishop Khajag Barsamian celebrated the Liturgy. H.H. Karekin II officiated. President Levon Der Bedrossian addressed the assembly. In his remarks, he discreetly attempted to squelch the misunderstanding about his personal choice of Karekin II for the position. He emphasized that ultimately, it is in the power of the delegates to elect the next catholicos and thereby forge ahead the work of the church and nation. His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia addressed the convocation attendees, openly eschewing any consideration of politics. He asked that each delegate cast their vote according to their conscience and as moved by God. Following these introductory remarks the delegates took their oath of office. The meeting convened in the Patriarchal Palace, adjacent to the main cathedral of Etchmiadzin. His Beatitude Archbishop Torkom Manoogian, Locum Tenes and Patriarch of Jerusalem, presided. According to election officials, the actual vote and selection of Catholicos is not expected until Wednesday. 3 April 1995 U.S. AMBASSADOR GILMORE ON THE PATRIARCHAL ELECTION YEREVAN-(Window Quarterly 04.03.95)-- On Sunday, April 2, close to 100 delegates and representatives from the United States who are in Armenia for the National Ecclesiastical Assembly in Etchmiadzin visited the U.S. Embassy in Yerevan. Ambassador Harry Gilmore welcomed the group, which was led by Archbishops Vatche Hovsepian and Khajag Barsamian. Ambassador Gilmore introduced the staff of the embassy and gave a brief introduction to American and Armenian relations. At the beginning of his remarks, Amb. Gilmore reflected on the upcoming patriarchal elections. He said, "The Armenian Church, for me, has been in many ways, the most fascinating institution, and certainly is my favorite Armenian institution, both because of its long history and what it symbolizes in terms of the long and successful pilgrimage of the Armenian people and the ability of this church to keep the culture of the people alive. This is evident to me as an outsider reading the history. "For me to see an election of a new catholicos in free Armenia is a very special occasion. Obviously, as a country that has separation of church and state, I will be totally a witness, as all of us in the Embassy. We will not have any thoughts to offer about individual candidates, we will be watching intently, I will be watching very sympathetically. "It is impressive to me to read the oath that you all are going to take. I believe it will be pretty much the same oath that dates back to 1911. I look forward to the results of the election." CULTURAL PROGRAMS ON THE OCCASION OF PATRIARCHAL ELECTION ETCHMIADZIN-(Window Quarterly 04.03.95)--A week-long cultural program has been organized in Yerevan on the occasion of the patriarchal election in Etchmiadzin. On Monday evening, the State Choir of Armenia gave a concert in Yerevan, directed by Hovhannes Chekijian. There are a series of concerts scheduled during the week until April 8, among them two operas, traditional Armenian instrumental concert, State Dance Ensemble and religious choirs. 5 April 1995 KAREKIN I CATHOLICOS ELECTED CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS by Hratch Tchilingirian ETCHMIADZIN-(Window Quarterly 04.04.95)--The National Ecclesiastical Assembly elected His Holiness Karekin II Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia as the 131 Catholicos of All Armenians. This historic election was highlighted by the fact that for the first time in Armenian history, a Catholicos of Cilicia has become Catholicos of All Armenians. [note: His Holiness is the first "Karekin" to assume the catholicosal throne of Holy Etchmiadzin and will henceforth be known as Karekin I.] On April 4, the first round of voting was held in the Cathedral of Etchmiadzin where 399 delegates representing the entire Armenian nation around the world gathered to elect the new catholicos. The first ballot had eight names and the voting results were as follows: Catholicos Karekin Sarkissian 111 votes Archbishop Karekin Nersissian 123 votes Bishop Barkev Mardirossian 61 votes Archbishop Diran Guereghian 42 votes Archbishop Grigoris Puniatian 38 votes Archbishop Zaven Chinchinian 9 votes Bishop Aris Shirvanian 3 votes Bishop Gueregh Kapikian 2 votes (10 invalid votes) At the conclusion and announcement of results of the first round, a three name ballot was prepared for the second round of voting. The candidates were Catholicos Karekin, Abp. Karekin Nersissian, Bp. Barkev Martirossian. There was long debate in the Assembly whether to continue the election and the final round of voting on Wednesday, but the majority decided to finish the election on Tuesday. After one hour of recess, the Assembly reconvened in the Cathedral where the second round of voting was held. The results were as follows: Catholicos Karekin Sarkissian 184 votes Archbishop Karekin Nersissian 146 votes Bishop Barkev Martirossian 61 votes (5 invalid votes) Originally, the Assembly had decided that the candidate who receives fifty percent and one votes (50%+1) would be the new catholicos. At the end of the second round of votes, Catholicos Karekin and Archbishop Karekin Nersissian were the front runners and according to the rules accepted by the Assembly, a third round of votes would have been required. However, Archbishop Karekin Nersissian, who had only 146 votes, withdrew his candidacy for a third round and gave his full support to Catholicos Karekin. Thus, the need for a third round of voting was unnecessary. The presidency of the Assembly, announced that Catholicos Karekin is the 131 CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS. The bells of Etchmiadzin tolled the news of the election of Catholicos All Armenians to the multitude of the people who were anxiously waiting outside the gates of the Monastery of Holy Etchmiadzin. A delegate from Michigan, Dr. Dennis Papazian reflecting on final election process said, "All the Archbishops and Bishops congratulated the new Catholicos and one another and the Cathedral was filled with jubilation and festive mood. There seem to be a great deal of good will and I think that this is very important in view of the fact that our church needs to move ahead, together with our country and people. Everyone seemed to understand that and showed great statesmanship and dignity. It was a proud moment to see our chosen leaders come together and say this is our Catholicos we will work with him. He is Chosen of God!" HIS HOLINESS KAREKIN I'S ACCEPTANCE SPEECH ETCHMIADZIN-(Window Quarterly 4.4.95)--After being elected the 131 Catholicos of All Armenians, His Holiness Karekin I made a brief acceptance statement in the Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin to the 399 delegates: "The first thing that I would like to do is kiss the Holy Altar of Descent as a sign of my devotion and oath. [Quotation from the Book of Psalms] With the words of the Psalmist, I open my mouth, to accept, willingly and by the will of the entire nation, the calling to this most high office. As St. Gregory of Narek said, 'Give strength to your servant O Lord, knowing myself, I am weak to bear the great and unforgivable burden.' But I beseech Thee, O Lord, give strength to your servant". Dear reverend brothers and lay colleagues, ladies and gentlemen First, I express my thanks and gratitude to all of you for dully performing your national responsibility. After long consultations and at times emotional difficulties, you came to this decision and elected me as successor to the throne of the Illuminator's Mother See. Your Beatitude, Archbishop Torkom Manoogian... During the last six months you carried out the difficult task of assuring the smooth transition of the 130th and 131st Catholicoi, with courage, persistence and great patience. Today I express my warm feelings and gratitude to you and wish, from the depth of my heart that the Apostolic See of Jerusalem may prosper during your tenure for many years. I hope that your Patriarchate will become one of the most important Sees for spiritual strength and nourishment. Brethren of the Supreme Religious Council, under the chairmanship of Patriarch Karekin Kazanjian of Constantinople and participation of the clergy and lay members, I express to you my deep gratitude. I express my thanks and gratitude to the Primate and Patriarchal Vicar of the Ararat Diocese in Yerevan and my dear junior brother Archbishop Karekin Nersissian. [Applause]. I embrace you as one of my closest assistants in the coming years. On this occasion, I would like to thank all those who helped organize this national Assembly which will continue tomorrow. I express my sincere thanks and appreciation to the Government of newly Independent Republic of Armenia, to his excellency the President and all the government and civil servants and to all the children of our Nation, both in Armenia and the Diaspora. Finally, as I enter this blessed house, I address my words of love to the institution which I served for eighteen years, the Catholicosate of the Great House of Cilicia. It is my duty and desire [to see] the realization of cooperation and unity, and may the will for one church, flag and cross lead us forward henceforth. And now, dear clergy and lay delegates of the National Ecclesiastical Assembly, I would like to conclude my remarks with my first blessing as Catholicos of All Armenians. (English translation provided by Hratch Tchilingirian) THE EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE NEA ETCHMIADZIN-(Window Quarterly 04.04.95)--The National Ecclesiastical Assembly during its first session on Tuesday, April 3, elected the executive officers of the Assembly. Chairman Judge Dariel Barseghian (Yerevan) Vice-Chairman Archbishop Nerses Bozabalian (Etchmiadzin) Secretary Fr. Haigazoun Najarian (New York) Vice-Secretary Bishop Anania Arabajian (Etchmiadzin) Considering that the Assembly consisted of 400 delegates, the difficult task of Judge Barseghian, a member of the Supreme Court of Armenia, was to bring the Assembly into order and harmony. As one delegate characterized it, "his personal stature, dignity and articulate style made the meeting process smoothly". The Presidency of the NEA consisted of Catholicos Karekin, Archbishop Torkom Manoogian and Archbishop Karekin Kazanjian, respective Patriarchs of Jerusalem and Constantinople. 6 April 1995 NATIONAL ECCLESIASTICAL ASSEMBLY -- FINAL SESSION ETCHMIADZIN-(Window Quarterly 04.05.95)--On Wednesday, April 4, the National Ecclesiastical Assembly convened in the patriarchal palace in Etchmiadzin for the final session of the three-day national meeting. His Holiness Karekin I, Catholicos elect of All Armenians, presided over the meeting. He opened the meeting with a prayer and a short meditation on a passage from the Gospel of Matthew. After reading the biblical passage, His Holiness invited the delegates and the members of the Assembly for a moment of prayer and meditation in silence. According to Archbishop Mesrob Mutafyan of Istanbul, "This prayerful opening was very significant and different from previous church assemblies. His Holiness, by his own example, set the stage for more spiritual awareness in the Armenian Church. All the delegates were inspired and touched by this beautiful beginning of the final session of the Assembly." His Holiness addressed the Assembly and gave a presentation on some of the major themes that will be on his list of priorities as the 131st Catholicos of All Armenians. Among the priorities, Karekin I discussed briefly a) The importance of the upcoming 1700th Anniversary of Armenian's declaration of Christianity as state religion; b) The preparation of new cadre of clergy and servants of the church; c) The national character of the Armenian Church; d) The importance of safeguarding the independence of Armenia. In this connection he called upon the delegates and Armenian communities around the world to support the "Hayastan Fund". At the end of his address, His Holiness asked the delegates for suggestions or proposals that they have. About two dozen delegates expressed their views and ideas and brought some of the concerns of their communities to His Holiness's attention. After the proposals, His Holiness made some concluding remarks. The National Ecclesiastical Assembly was formally closed with His Holiness's blessing. CATHOLICOS KAREKIN I FORMALLY RESIGNS FROM HIS CILICIAN POST ANTELIAS PREPARES FOR ELECTION OF LOCUM TENENS YEREVAN-(Window Quarterly 04.05.95)--As the attention of Armenians focus on the events in Holy Etchmiadzin and the election of the new Catholicos of All Armenians, the Catholicosate of Cilicia is in the process of inviting a special ecclesiastical meeting to discuss the vacancy of the See of Cilicia. Archbishop Ardavazt Tr'trian, a member of the Brotherhood of Antelias was in Etchmiadzin to receive a letter from Catholicos Karekin I, by which he would present his "formal resignation" as the Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia. Officials in Antelias are preparing to call the Joint Councils of the Great House of Cilicia (clergy and lay) to put into motion the election of a Locum Tenens for the Cilician See. PREPARATIONS FOR THE ENTHRONEMENT CEREMONIES ETCHMIADZIN-(Window Quarterly 04.06.95)--The enthronement of the 131st Catholicos of All Armenians is scheduled to take place on Palm Sunday, April 9. A large number of guests are expected to attend the ceremonies, which will be held in the Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin. On Sunday morning, Catholicos elect Karekin I will celebrate the Divine Liturgy, which will be followed by a special service of enthronement. According to sources in Etchmiadzin, many foreign guests and representatives of international organizations are expected to attend the ceremonies, among them Cardinal Cassidy, head of Vatican's Council of the Unity of Churches, high ranking representatives of the World Council of Churches, several hierarchs of the Oriental Orthodox Churches, representatives of Pro Oriente and others. For over three decades Karekin I has been a leader in the ecumenical movement. Archbishop Mesrob Krikorian, Pontifical Legate in Europe, stated that "His Holiness Karekin I is a very well known personality in the ecumenical movement. This will enhance a more active participation by the Armenian Church in world church affairs. Unfortunately, in recent years, the participation of Etchmiadzin in ecumenical events and developments was minimal. We hope that through the election of Karekin I as Catholicos of All Armenians, the Armenian Church would be more active and bring its worthy contribution to the movement." KAREKIN I VISITS PRESIDENT TER PETROSSIAN YEREVAN-(Window Quarterly 04.05.95)--On Wednesday, April 5, after the conclusion of the National Ecclesiastical Assembly, the newly elected Catholicos of All Armenians, His Holiness Karekin I, about 4:00 PM, made his first courtesy visit to the President of the Republic of Armenia, Levon Ter Petrossian. His Holiness was accompanied by the respective Patriarchs of Jerusalem and Constantinople, members of the Supreme Religious Council and several archbishops of Etchmiadzin. On his way to Yerevan, His Holiness's entourage stopped at the outskirts of the city where thousands of Armenians were waiting on the streets to greet the new Catholicos. His Holiness came out of his car and was greeted by dancing children, who brought bread and salt for blessing. After the blessing, a sheep was slaughtered by the residents of the area, as it is customary in Armenia for special occasions. His Holiness met with the President of the Republic and his staff briefly. At about 5:00 PM a large crowd of several thousand Armenians were waiting in the Opera Square in Yerevan to greet the new Catholicos. Karekin I was received with music and loud cheers. The gathering was concluded with the singing of the Lord's Prayer by all who were present. 9 APRIL 1995 ENTHRONEMENT OF CATHOLICOS KAREKIN I ETCHMIADZIN-(Window Quarterly 04.09.95)--On Sunday, April 9, His Holiness Karekin I was enthroned as the 131st Catholicos of All Armenians in the Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin. At 11:00 AM, the Catholicos was lead from the patriarchal palace to the Cathedral of Etchmiadzin with a procession in which high ranking clergy and ecumenical guests took part. President Levon Ter Petrosian witnessed the ceremony in the Cathedral, together with the vice-president of Armenia, Chairman of the Parliament, Cabinet Ministers and other high ranking government officials. President Kocharian of the Republic of Mountainous Karabakh was also present. The ceremonies started with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. His Holiness Karekin I was the celebrant. Before the "Kiss of Peace" the catholicos elect kneeled before the holy altar facing the people and took his public oath. Afterwards, twelve bishops and respective patriarchs of Jerusalem and Constantinople placed their hands over Karekin I's head and asked for the blessings of the Holy Spirit to descend over the Catholicos of All Armenians. Immediately after the prayers, the newly enthroned pontiff gave his first sermon as Catholicos of All Armenians. In his sermon he said, "As I embark on the final path of my journey of spiritual service, I ask You, O Lord, on this most holy altar: 'Give thy strength to Thy servant, and save the son of Thine handmaid, and show me the sign of your favor'. ... I am certain that you all realize the unique and exceptional significance of this Catholicosal election. For the first time in the twentieth century, the election was carried out--as now this solemn ceremony of enthronement is taking place--during a period when our fatherland has become an independent republic. Armenia has been liberated from seventy years of totalitarian rule, and today a free independent and democratic regime prevails in our fatherland. "The Armenian Apostolic Church is summoned--at this decisive time of transition in our modern history--to an imperative mission of salvation. Led by the fundamental teachings of an historical legacy established by God and transmitted through Christ, it is called upon to pour into the life of our people new, clean and abundant water from the fountain of the Holy Gospel and the sacred tradition of our fathers-- namely the eternal truths lived by and in Christ and transmitted through the Gospel, the moral principles of human life and spiritual values." His Holiness spoke about the challenges facing the Armenian Church at the close of the twentieth century, as well as the relationship between Armenia and the Diaspora. He concluded his remarks by saying, "May the arm of Almighty God protect the entire Armenian people in the fatherland and abroad. Let us pray that God will tend me as a shepherd, so that I may likewise tend as shepherd to you, His flock." Many foreign and ecumenical guests were present at the enthronement ceremonies, among them Pope Shenuda of the Coptic Church, the Patriarch of the Indian Malabar Church, the Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, Patriarch of Syrian Orthodox Church, Cardinal Cassidy of the Vatican, representing Pope John Paul II, and representatives of the Russian, Greek, Romanian, Georgian Orthodox Churches, the Church of England and many others. Also present were the foreign diplomatic corps in Armenia. RECEPTION IN HONOR OF CATHOLICOS KAREKIN I YEREVAN-(Window Quarterly 04.09.95)--Following the religious ceremonies for the enthronement of Karekin I, a reception was held at 4:00 PM in the large hall of the "Hamalir" in Yerevan. Over one thousand invited guests and delegates, together with President Ter Petrossian welcomed the 131st Catholicos of All Armenians. During the reception, the President congratulated the new Catholicos on behalf of the entire Armenian Nation. He said, "We believe that today a new page is opened in our history". Afterwards, the representatives of other churches expressed their congratulations and offered their gifts to His Holiness. The two-hour reception was concluded with the words of the Catholicos, where he said, "During the past few days we have spoken a lot, now we need to move from words to work. Let us start our work together". KAREKIN I'S ADDRESS TO THE FOREIGN GUESTS YEREVAN-(Window Quarterly 04.09.95)--At the reception following the enthronement ceremonies in Etchmiadzin, His Holiness Karekin I said a few words to the foreign and ecumenical guests in the large hall of the "Hamalir" in Yerevan. "This evening is an unforgettable moment in our history of modern times. As I said in my sermon, this is a unique event in the sense that for centuries, we did not have an election and an enthronement of a Catholicos where free independent Armenia could express its own will. That happened and may God's name be praised for having granted us this great opportunity. And your presence here, from so many sister Christian churches, your presence from so many countries [is a testimony to that fact]. The world is looking to Armenia, it has to look to Armenia because your salvation came from Mount Ararat. Had it not been for that big Mountain, Noah would not have, perhaps, survived and if not, you would not have existed today. "I would like to thank you for your Christian spirit of solidarity. What is Christianity? It is togetherness, fellowship, brotherhood and you being with us give us a tangible proof of being true Christian. To be a Christian alone without another Christian is not to be a Christian. Christians have to manifest their community through that kind of togetherness. "I wish all my brethren, the heads of your churches, those who are here and those who are represented here, I greet them and embrace them with Christian love." I give you my assurance that we will, hand in hand together, bring about the unity of Christ's church. That unity is imperative, it is part of our essence, that unity is intrinsic in our being Christian. This is the lesson of this evening. Thank you." KAREKIN I GRANTED ARMENIAN CITIZENSHIP YEREVAN-(Window Quarterly 04.09.95)--His Holiness Karekin I, the new Catholicos of All Armenians, was granted Armenian citizenship by the President of the Republic of Armenia. During the reception following the enthronement of His Holiness as the 131st Catholicos, President Levon Ter Petrossian, at the conclusion of his remarks, granted Armenian citizenship to Karekin I by handing him an Armenian passport. The President also granted citizenship to His Beatitude Archbishop Torkom Manoogian, Patriarch of Jerusalem, who was Locum Tenens of Etchmiadzin during the interim period between the death of Catholicos Vazken I and the election of Karekin I. Background information THE TWO KAREKINS His Holiness Karekin II Sarkissian HH. Karekin II Sarkissian was born in 1932, in Kessab, Syria. From 1946-52 he studied at the Armenian Seminary in Antelias, Lebanon. Upon his graduation in 1955, he was ordained a priest and appointed supervisor of the seminary. In 1957, he attended Oxford University in England and graduated in 1959 with a B. Litt. degree. Back in Lebanon, he held various positions at the Catholicosate of Cilicia, was a member of the faculty of the Seminary and lecturer in theology, history and literature at the American University of Beirut, Beirut Women's College and Palanjian Academy in Beirut. He was consecrated a bishop in 1964 and subsequently, was elected primate of Irano-Indian Diocese in Julfa. From 1973-1977 he served the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Church in America, first as patriarchal vicar and then as prelate. In 1977, due to the ailing health of Catholicos Khoren, Archbishop Karekin was elected Catholicos Co-adjutor. In 1983, he became Catholicos Karekin II, after the death of Khoren I. Throughout his career as an Armenian clergyman, Karekin II has been very active in Armenian church and community affairs--as a scholar, teacher and spiritual leader. Also he has been one of the initiators of the ecumenical movement in the Middle East. Through his efforts the Catholicosate of Cilicia became a member of the World Council of Churches in 1962. He was an observer at the Second Vatican Council in 1963-65 and the Conference of Lambeth in 1968. Karekin II has published over two dozen volumes on theological, spiritual, historical, cultural, and literary topics in Armenian, English and French. Archbishop Karekin Nersissian Archbishop Karekin Nersissian, Pontifical Vicar (Primate) of the Ararat Diocese was born in Abaran, Armenia in 1951. He studied at the Seminary of Holy Etchmiadzin and was ordained a priest in 1972. Soon after his ordination, he was sent to Germany were he continued his theological studies for a few years. Upon his return from Germany, Fr. Karekin served the Armenian Church in Armenia in various capacities. In 1983 he was consecrated a bishop by His Holiness Vazken I and appointed Pontifical Vicar of the Ararat Diocese, the largest Armenian diocese in the world. Since then, Archbishop Karekin has been very active in his diocese, especially following the tragic earthquake in 1988. His diocese is involved with numerous charitable projects, youth programs and other ministries. In 1991, Archbishop Nersissian founded the Sevan Seminary on the banks of Lake Sevan, which has become a model religious educational institution. Currently more than 30 students study at the seminary. ============================================= ====== _ _ _ _ _ |_| ___ _| | ___ _ _ _ | | | | | | _ / _ \ / _ | / _ \ | | | | | | | |_| |_| || |_ | | | || |_| || |_| || |_| |_| | \_________/\___||_| |_| \___/ \___/ \_________/ View Of The Armenian Church ============================================= ======