Armenian Apostolic Holy Church Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

On the occasion of the Day of Knowledge, Writing, and Education, from the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin we offer our patriarchal blessing to schoolchildren, students, and teachers — all who have devoted themselves to the sacred work of education.

The gift of understanding, the capacity to perceive truth, and the ability to grasp knowledge are blessings granted by God, bearing true fruit when human life is founded upon faith in Him and guided by His holy commandments. The Holy Scripture teaches: “To know wisdom and instruction, to perceive the words of understanding… When wisdom enters your heart and knowledge is pleasant to your soul, discretion will preserve you and understanding will keep you, to deliver you…” (Proverbs 1:2; 2:10–12).

With this awareness, our people have lived for centuries, preserving in their souls an enduring love for knowledge, which has enabled them to overcome trials and build a great spiritual and intellectual heritage.

Beloved pupils and students, today begins a new stage for you — a time of diligent effort, reflection on values, engagement with new knowledge, and growth in both spirit and intellect.

Our fatherly counsel to you is to be steadfast in your studies and to strengthen your love for God and the homeland, so that, with a deep awareness of your national duty, you may apply the knowledge you acquire for the welfare and progress of our people.

We wish teachers strength and inspiration to guide their students along the path of science and discovery, following in the footsteps of Sahak and Mesrop, so that they may grow as worthy children of our nation and responsible citizens of our country.

We pray that the Good Lord preserve our homeland and people in peace, in Armenia and throughout the Diaspora. May He graciously bestow His blessing, illuminating the souls and minds of all our children, and abundantly bless the efforts of those devoted to the sacred work of education.

A blessed and fruitful new academic year!

With blessings,
KAREKIN II
Catholicos of All Armenians