PRESS RELEASE
Catholicosate of Cilicia
Communication and Information Department
Contact: V.Rev.Fr.Krikor Chiftjian, Communications Officer
Tel: (04) 410001, 410003
Fax: (04) 419724
E- mail: [email protected]
Web:
PO Box 70 317
Antelias-Lebanon
Armenian version:
EASTER IN ANTELIAS
"IT IS ME, DO NOT BE AFRAID":
HIS HOLINESS INSPIRES STRENGTH IN BELIEVERS
Jesus Christ’s miraculous resurrection was celebrated in the Saint Gregory
the Illuminator Cathedral in Antelias on Easter Sunday. His Holiness Aram I,
who performed the Holy Mass, entered the Cathedral packed with a large crowd
of believers on the sounds of "Herashapar" and the tolling of the church
bells. He headed a procession that moved from the Veharan towards the
cathedral.
In his Pontifical message on this occasion, His Holiness inspired strength
in the believers by stressing the victory of the Resurrected Savior.
Speaking about truly following Christ’s path, he outlined the
characteristics of true Christianity. The Pontiff specially stressed the
importance of constantly feeling the presence of Jesus Christ.
"Christianity is not a label, Christianity is not an external mask,
Christianity is not a form and structure. Such perceptions and approaches do
not assure the presence of Christ in human beings. They only drive Christ
away from our lives. Christianity is a way of life in which Christ’s Gospel
shines. Following Jesus’ promise that "I will always be with you until the
end of the world", the true Christian is the one strengthened by Christ. The
true Christian is the person who rests strong in his faith in the face of
all the dangers and challenges of life," he said.
With a quotation from Jesus Christ, "It is me, do not be afraid", the
Catholicos inspired strength in Armenian believers living in all the corners
of the world, stressing that the Armenian Church stands beside its children
in all the difficulties they face.
His Holiness then spoke about the political developments in Lebanon and
the role of the Armenian community, with its viewpoints and approach.
His Holiness received congratulations from spiritual leaders and
government and political officials on the occasion of Easter.
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