Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin Hosts Participants of the AGBU Focus Program
17.07.2025
On July 17, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, received the participants of the 'AGBU Focus' program at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, accompanied by Mr. Vazgen Yakoubian, President of AGBU Armenia and a member of the AGBU Central Board.
During the meeting, Mr. Yakoubian informed His Holiness that the 'AGBU Focus' program, organized within the framework of AGBU youth initiatives, is being held in Armenia for the first time and is aimed at creating a network of like-minded individuals, establishing cooperation, and engaging in AGBU’s global programs. This year, the event has brought together approximately 4,000 young Armenian professionals from around the world.
Mr. Yakoubian expressed gratitude for welcoming the participants and for the opportunity to host the workshop at the Mother See, which will further strengthen the youth’s ties to the Armenian Church and promote the strengthening and renewal of their national identity.
His Holiness extended his patriarchal blessing and message to the participants, expressing his appreciation for such programs, which enable Armenians from various countries to gather in their homeland, connect, and develop joint initiatives in support of AGBU’s mission and for the betterment of their homeland.
The Catholicos also expressed satisfaction with the close ties and collaboration established between the Mother See and AGBU, emphasizing the Union’s invaluable contribution to the realization of the Armenian Church’s mission. His Holiness expressed confidence that the impressions and experiences gained in the homeland would serve as a source of inspiration for the youth, encouraging them to remain faithful to national values and sacred traditions, and to contribute actively to Armenian life.
Concluding his address, His Holiness urged the youth to draw inspiration from the exemplary service of AGBU’s distinguished presidents and Central Board members, and to use their knowledge and experience for the flourishing of national and ecclesiastical life. He also answered questions from the participants concerning youth engagement in church life, the training and service of clergy, and the challenges currently facing the homeland.
