The Armenian community in Lebanon gathered at the Catholicosate of Cilicia on the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide to honor the memory of the martyrs and survivors with a Divine Liturgy dedicated to the canonized martyrs.
Under the auspices of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, Bp. Dajad Ashekian conducted the Liturgy at St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Antelias. The commemoration culminated with a pontifical speech by His Holiness and a wreath-laying ceremony in front of the Holy Martyrs’ Memorial Chapel.
Scout groups from Lebanese-Armenian organizations, along with their fanfares, participated in the commemoration and led the processions.
Wreaths were laid by distinguished attendees, including the Armenian ambassador to Lebanon, representatives of the Central Council of the Catholicosate, members of the three Armenian political parties in Lebanon, former and current Armenian members of the Lebanese parliament and ministers, as well as representatives from Lebanese Armenian organizations.
The ceremony concluded with the anthems of Lebanon, Armenia, and Artsakh.
Below is the text of His Holiness Catholicos Aram I’s speech.
April 24 is not only a day to honor our martyrs; it is also a time for national self-examination and recognition. It reminds the world of our people’s oppressed rights and calls for renewed efforts in our struggle to honor their sacrifices.
Our current struggle is at a critical juncture in our history. With changing geopolitical conditions, we must rethink our strategies for pursuing the Armenian Cause.
Here are five key points to consider:
- The entire Armenian nation has a right to claim its oppressed rights. Every Armenian, no matter where they are or their circumstances, should have this awareness. The Genocide is integral to Armenian identity, and advocating for our rights is vital. We must all contribute to this struggle.
- Armenia is the rightful bearer of the Armenian Cause, as affirmed in our Declaration of Independence and the National Declaration on the 100th Anniversary of the Genocide. Separating the Armenian Cause from Armenia undermines our roots and can weaken our rights and independence.
- Close cooperation between Armenia and the Diaspora is crucial. We must align our national and state interests, clarifying the roles and responsibilities of both entities to harness the full potential of our people.
- Our demands should focus on political and legal aspects. While much work has been done in academic fields, we need to adapt our approaches to current geopolitical realities, recognizing the intertwined nature of politics and law.
- Our unity is our strength. History shows that true solidarity comes from within our community, rather than relying on external allies. The only consistent support we have lies in the cooperation between Armenia and the Diaspora.
