Armenian Apostolic Holy Church The Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

On July 02, in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, hosted the newly ordained Rev. Fr. Atanas Sarkisyan, accompanied by His Grace Bishop Vertanes Abrahamyan, Primate of the Diocese of Artsakh. Rev. Fr. Atanas has recently ordained as a celibate Priest at Gandzasar Monastery, and completed his traditional 40-day seclusion period of fasting in Dadivank Monastery .

At the beginning of the meeting, Bishop Vertanes introduced Rev. Fr. Atanas, frirstly reflecting on his service in the Chaplaincy of the RA Armed Forces, then, in the Diocese of Artsakh.

His Grace particularly mentioned that Rev. Fr. Atanas always fulfilled the expectations of  his spiritual leader during his service, and was honored and highly praised everywhere.

Then, the Catholicos of All Armenians conveyed his Pontifical Blessings and congratulations to Rev. Fr. Atanas, on the occasion of his ordination and the first Divine Liturgy. The Pontiff of All Armenians also expressed his appreciation to the young clergyman for his dedicated service and high responsibility shown in the difficult conditions in Dadivank Monastery.

During the conversation with the Primate of the Artsakh Diocese, His Holiness reflected on the conditions of service of the clergy living in Dadivank, the spiritual mission of the monastery, the circumstances hindering the pilgrims' visits, and the steps taken in this direction. His Holiness expressed confidence that the existing difficulties will be solved over the time.

At the conclusion of the meeting, His Holiness blessed the newly ordained Rev. Fr.  Atanas with a Protector Prayer wishing strong faith and fruitful service, for the glory of God, and the prosperity of the Armenian Church.