PONTIFICAL MESSAGE ON THE ANNIVERSARY OF ARMENIA’S INDEPENDENCE

Today is September 21, the Independence Day of the Republic of Armenia. In other words, it is not an ordinary day and should not be for any Armenian and for the entire Armenian nation. Throughout our history, we have fought for the independence of Armenia, built her up, and even shed blood with the profound understanding that independence is a God-given right and, therefore, a sacred value, and its flawless preservation and defense is the duty of every Armenian. 

Today, as we celebrate the independence of Armenia, it is necessary to reflect on what our obligations and rights are toward her. Especially today, when we look at independent Armenia, we realize that it is surrounded by terrible crises, both internal and external, distant and close. Crises that can undermine the foundations of the Homeland’s independence, even calling into question its sovereign existence. It is true that we should not be desperate or pessimistic; however, a realistic assessment of the current situation in Armenia leads us to realism, and undoubtedly, realism must drive us to defend Armenia’s independence with collective will and conscious commitment, keeping it away from all approaches, concessions, and agreements that may threaten its territorial integrity and security. 

The Church, in the life of all nations, has always stood by independence, considering it one of the essential aspects of its mission. This has been especially true for the Armenian Church throughout our nation’s history, practically expressing its firm stance against all attempts that could undermine the Homeland’s independence. Let us look to our past so that we can assess the present of the Homeland and establish appropriate approaches to place its independence on firmer foundations with sacred dedication.   

Therefore, the unity of our people around an all-Armenian agenda, through the consolidation of forces and the strengthening of our collective determination, is more imperative than ever at this decisive moment in our history. 

This is the meaning of the Independence Day of the Republic of Armenia. 

His Holiness Aram I
CATHOLICOS

September 21, 2024