Message from Karechin II, Catholicos of all Armenians
THE MESSAGE OF HIS HOLINESS KAREKIN II
SUPREME PATRIARCH AND CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS
ON THE OCCASION OF THE TWENTY-SECOND INTERNATIONAL ECUMENICAL CONFERENCE
From the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, the spiritual center of the Armenian people, We convey our patriarchal blessings to you, the organizers and participants of this twenty-second International Ecumenical Conference.
With thanks we reflect that, with the participation of the representatives of Sister Churches, this annual International Ecumenical Conference offers an opportunity to reevaluate the literary legacy of the Holy Fathers of Christ’s Church and of the eminent ecclesiastical authors, as well as to ignite in human life the important mission of preaching and spreading the luminous teachings of the Gospel.
The title of this year’s conference is the significant word of our Lord Jesus Christ, “Blessed are the peacemakers,” which is a divine call and an invitation for abiding peace and the establishment of a good life for all mankind in a world disturbed by conflicts and military actions. Through the various temptations of this world, interpersonal conflicts, and the problems and challenges in public life, humanity yearns for the divinely granted peace. Its path opens before us through prayerful unification with God the most High and the realization of His paternal living commandments.
Today mankind has made the greatest advances in the development of modern technology, the rapid diffusion of information and the great speed of transportation, but, however, has often failed in establishing Christian love, the supremacy of the divine Word, solidarity, collaboration, and mutual understanding. Materialistic achievements alone are no guarantee of the spiritual progress or perfection, and the peace for which we so greatly yearn. The Holy Church always bids “Peace with all,” and distributes heavenly graces so that people may be transformed and transfigured into the people of God. For as the psalmist says: “The Lord will give strength to His people, He will bless His people with peace.” (Psalm 28:11)
We pray to our heavenly Lord for peace in the whole world, especially in the Middle East, Syria and Ukraine, who bear the calamities and tribulations of military events. We ask that merciful God grant good and renewed progress for mankind by the fulfilment of our Savior Jesus Christ’s commandments, pursued in a life of good works pleasing to God.
May the Lord strengthen you with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Encouraging you may He grant you all every success and bless your united efforts at this conference with bountiful fruits.
May the grace, love and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you and with all. Amen.
With blessings,
KAREKIN II
SUPREME PATRIARCH AND
CATHOLICOS OF ALL ARMENIANS