Armenian Apostolic Holy Church Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

On September 26, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, warmly welcomed the students of the AGBU Alex and Marie Manoogian School in Michigan to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, who were accompanied by the President of AGBU Armenia, Mr. Vasken Yacoubian.

"The main purpose of the pilgrimage is to strengthen the bonds between Diaspora Armenian youth, their Homeland, and the Church, as well as introduce young people to Armenian culture and spiritual heritage," said Mr Yacoubian, seeking the blessing of His Holiness.

Bestowing his paternal blessing upon the students, the Catholicos of All Armenians expressed his gratitude to the leadership of the Armenian General Benevolent Union and the school administration for this initiative, which will most effectively foster love for the Homeland and devotion to the Church.

“Being a student of the Alex and Marie Manoogian School is both a blessing and a responsibility,” stressed His Holiness, saying that the bright example of the great Armenian benefactors Alex and Marie Manoogian should always inspire every student.

He urged students to study diligently and use their skills to serve their local Armenian communities and the Homeland. In doing so, they will honor and preserve the benefactors' name and legacy.

The Supreme Patriarch thanked the school administration and educators for providing students with a comprehensive Armenian education, thereby nurturing the students’ love, commitment, and dedication to the Homeland and national values.