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Armenian Archbishop Delivers Opening Prayer Before U.S. House of Representatives Video

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Armenian Assembly Co-Chair Anthony Barsamian,Congressman Adam Schiff (D-CA), His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, and Armenian Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church, was invited by House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Ranking Member Congressman Adam Schiff (D-CA) to deliver the opening prayer before the U.S. House of Representatives, reported the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly).
 
“It was an honor to welcome Archbishop Derderian to our nation’s capital to deliver today’s opening prayer,” Rep. Schiff said. “I am so pleased that the House of Representatives was able to hear the inspiring words of such a distinguished and respected spiritual leader from our community. Archbishop Derderian has had a tremendous impact on people of all faiths and played a vital role in the religious and civic life of millions.”
 
Archbishop Derderian expressed his appreciation to Congressman Schiff and the Assembly, and wished the Members of the House of Representatives continued success in their diplomatic endeavors.
“On behalf of the Armenian Assembly, I commend Archbishop Derderian for his leadership and commitment to the Armenian people. It was a wonderful opportunity to welcome a good friend to Washington D.C. and to hear in person the Archbishop’s inspirational prayer,” stated Armenian Assembly Co-Chair and Massachusetts Council of Churches President Anthony Barsamian.
 
Established in 1972, the Armenian Assembly of America is the largest Washington-based nationwide organization promoting public understanding and awareness of Armenian issues. The Assembly is a non-partisan, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt membership organization.

Washington US Vice President Joseph Biden hosts prayer to commemorate #ArmenainGenocide victims

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191846United States Vice President Joseph Biden and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power, joined President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan, Catholicos Karekin II, and Catholicos Aram I, in a prayer service as part of the National Armenian Genocide centennial commemoration at the National Cathedral. Over two thousand Armenian Americans filled the iconic sanctuary in the solemn centennial anniversary of the first genocide of the twentieth century, Massis Post reports.

Guests and representatives of various faiths gathered for “The Holy Martyrs of the Armenian Genocide: A Prayer for Justice and Peace” to remember those lost in the Genocide and to demonstrate gratitude for the regeneration of life for which the survivors and their saviors worked so hard.

The Most Rev. Dr. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, welcomed attendees to the service and the Rev. Dr. Olav Fykse Tveit, General Secretary of the World Council of Churches, delivered the homily. The interfaith ceremony was led by His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, and His Holiness Aram I Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia.

Also in attendance were the descendants of saviors who contributed to the survival of thousands of Armenians a century ago. During the service, they were acknowledged and praised for their human compassion and selfless bravery.

“Worshippers of all faiths long for a world of tolerance and devoid of hate and violence,” said Noubar Afeyan, Chair of the NCAGC Steering Committee, who is himself the descendant of a Genocide survivor.

Reflecting on the day’s service, the Armenian President offered his perspective:

“It was truly an honor to address the congregation at the National Cathedral,” said President Sargsyan. “Today’s ecumenical prayer demonstrated a powerful call to unite this community in the spirit of gratitude, justice and peace.”

“It is important to recognize that we must work together to forge a more peaceful future. Genocide can happen anywhere, at any time; there is no generation, religion or ethnic group that is immune—history has shown this. What happened in 1915 to the Armenian people whether we call it tragedy for geopolitical reasons or massacres, it is genocide by its very intent and means, and genocide is a crime against humanity” emphasized His Holiness Aram I during the ceremony.

“We seek to inspire a change of spirit in people—an awakening of the heart that will influence future generations. The events in Washington are a testament to our strength, 100 years after the Genocide, as we join together to promote peace, honor those lost, and protect those at risk around the world no matter their race, religion or ethnicity,” said His Holiness Karekin II.

The service is part of a series of commemorative events planned by the NCAGC to mark the 100th anniversary of the Genocide. Upcoming events include a concert at the Strathmore featuring performances by renowned Armenian musicians May 8 at 8 p.m., a Divine Liturgy at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception May 9 at 10 a.m., a banquet dinner and awards ceremony at the Marriot Marquis May 9 at 5:30 p.m., and various other exhibitions and cultural events.