THANKSGIVING PRAYERS FOR THE FIRST INDEPENDENCE OF THE REPUBLIC OF ARMENIA

On occasion of the 106th anniversary of the first independence of the Republic of Armenia, this Sunday, May 26, prayers and ceremonies of thanksgiving will take place in all churches of the Eastern Prelacy by order of His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan, Prelate. Requiem services will be held for the heroes fallen in the battles of Sardarabad, Pash Abaran, and Gharakilise, and for our present-day martyrs in the struggle for Artsakh.   

Bless, O Lord, this tricolor flag. And just as after the flood you placed your rainbow on Mt. Ararat and established a covenant with mankind, now too after the flowing of so much holy and heroic blood, may this flag with its beautiful colors be sealed as a sign of our covenant with you.  

Bless, O Lord, our country, our Fatherland, where you established the paradise of bliss at the time of the world’s creation. Over the course of centuries the inexorable enemy has reduced it to ruin, but now with your mercy and bountiful grace you have caused it to bloom even more. Adorn our churches, monasteries, schools, and charitable organizations with progress and holiness, and protect them from the enemies. Bless all that is good there, especially the first of names, the name ARMENIA.  

(From the Prayer of Thanksgiving for the Republic of Armenia)