H.E. The congratulatory message of Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II on the occasion of the feast of the Annunciation.

“On the occasion of the Feast of the Annunciation of the Holy Mother of God, we bring our Patriarchal blessing and congratulations to our pious people in our homeland and in the diaspora.

This spiritual holiday is declared as a day of blessing for women waiting for the joy of motherhood. In churches, at the end of the Holy Liturgy, a prayerful wish is made and expectant mothers receive a blessing, asking God to grant them a loving, healthy and happy life and good and worthy children.

The faithful and virtuous image of the Holy Mother of God has been a source of inspiration for mothers for centuries. Following the shining example of the Holy Mother of God, Armenian women overcame the trials they faced with unconditional obedience to God’s will in difficult times, kept their faith and love for Christ strong and unshakable, and lived with unwavering dedication to the nation and homeland.

We pray that the Almighty Lord, through the intercession of the Holy Mother of God, will bless the women awaiting the joy of motherhood and grant them a successful pregnancy.

May the Almighty God grant peace to the whole world, keep our homeland and all our people around the world safe and prosperous.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace” (Romans 15:13). every

—