Armenian Pilgrims Celebrate 1700^th Anniversary of Etchmiadzin Cathedral

About 60 pilgrims returned on October 6, from a pilgrimage to Armenia commemorating the 1700th Anniversary of the consecration of the Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin. They began their journey on September 24 from New York and were led in Armenia by Archbishop Khajag Barsamian. The highlights of the trip were a private audience with His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, and a special Divine Liturgy, celebrated by Archbishop Barsamian in the Mother Cathedral.

"The pilgrims were all very moved. At the conclusion of the badarak, I saw tears in the eyes of people," the Primate said. "It was very, very moving spiritually. It was an extraordinary experience."

In his sermon on that day, the Primate--chairman of the committee planning last year's commemoration of the Cathedral's anniversary--spoke of the importance of continuing tradition while looking to the future.

Many descended the narrow ladder into the pit at Khor Virab and toured sanctuaries that have stood centuries on Armenian soil. Along with visiting historic churches and cultural sites, the pilgrims saw efforts to redevelop and aid Armenia, and witnessed the continuing rebirth of the Christian faith in Armenia. During their tour, they met U.S. Ambassador to Armenia John Ordway, who detailed America's aid efforts in Armenia.

Each returned filled with memories of a historic visit that ignited in them a renewed spirit and dedication to the Armenian Church.