Divine Liturgy at the Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin
04.07.2025
On July 3, the Divine and Immortal Liturgy was celebrated at the Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin by His Grace Bishop Narek Berberian, Primate of the Diocese of Brazil.
In his homily, the celebrant reflected on the living power of divine light in the Armenian world—light that first radiated from the darkness of Khor Virap, the pit where, amid silence, cold, and utter solitude, Saint Gregory the Illuminator remained steadfast in his faith. Strengthened by the grace of the Holy Spirit and radiant in faith, he laid the foundation for the renewal of our spiritual homeland.
His Grace emphasized that in this spiritual homeland, Holy Etchmiadzin was established as the embodiment of divine revelation—the very place where God encountered the Armenian nation.
Bishop Narek also addressed the pressing challenges of our time and the campaign being waged against the Church, drawing attention to faithful Armenians who are currently imprisoned.
“What we witnessed just days ago can truly be called a day of national shame. Our two spiritual brothers—the Very Reverend Archbishops Mikael and Bagrat—as well as national benefactor Mr. Samvel Karapetyan, are now in their own ‘Virap.’ They are silent, yet their prayers rise to heaven, and the sound of those prayers echoes from Holy Etchmiadzin.
… Holy Etchmiadzin stands firm, upheld by its clergy and led by the Catholicos of All Armenians. It cannot be shaken, for its foundation is our Lord Jesus Christ,” Bishop Narek affirmed.
He called upon all to remain steadfast in faith during these trying times, to remain faithful children of Holy Etchmiadzin, and to lift up prayers for peace in the homeland, the liberation of the captives, and the consolation of the afflicted.
