His Beatitude Patriarch Sahak II made his first official international visit to the Mother Throne of Surp Etchmiadzin on Friday, February 28, after his election as Patriarch.
The Patriarch arrived at Surp Etchmiadzin with a delegation consisting of the head of the spiritual committee, Archpriest Tatul Anushyan, senior priest Drtad Uzunyan and Father Shirvan Mürzian. The delegation entered the Mother Throne with the chant of “Hrashapar”, and made a short speech after their thanksgiving prayers. His Beatitude said: “I thank God for visiting as the 85th Patriarch of the Armenians of Turkey the Kevorkyan theological seminary where I have been the Dean and Holy Etchmiadzin where I visited previously as priest and bishop. I greet all of you.”
Later, Patriarch Sahak II Maşalyan and the accompanying delegation were welcomed by His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians. The Catholicos congratulated the newly elected Patriarch of Armenians of Turkey and wished him power, wisdom and peace from God for his mission. Patriarch Sahak II thanked Catholicos for this sincere welcome.
Patriarch Sahak II will return to Istanbul on Friday (March 6th) after attending some meetings during his visit to Surp Etchmiadzin, Kevorkyan Seminary and the Mother Throne.
