21 years ago today, I stood before the altar of God at the Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin, taking vows that would shape the course of my life. As I look back on that day, I’m filled with awe and wonder at the incredible journey God has so carefully laid out for me.
Over these two decades, God has blessed me with the privilege to serve in 3 different continents, in 10 vibrant cities, across 3 loving dioceses, and within 8 unique parishes. Each of these experiences has been a chapter in the story God is writing through my life—a story of faith, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of community.
From the bustling streets of large cities to the quiet corners of small towns, I have seen the faces of our Church change, but never its spirit. The love, the faith, the unwavering commitment to Christ— these are the constants that have guided us all.
In every baptism, every wedding, every funeral, and every Sunday service, your faith has given me the strength to carry out my duties with the same love and commitment I felt on the day I was ordained. You have been my support, my encouragement, and my reason for continuing this journey with joy in my heart.
I have also seen our Church face new challenges—challenges our predecessors might never have imagined. But with each challenge comes an opportunity—an opportunity to grow, to reflect Christ's love in new ways, and to reaffirm our commitment to our faith. It has been both humbling and invigorating to be a vessel of God’s grace through these times.
To each parishioner, to every family, to all my brothers and sisters in Christ who have been part of this journey—I thank you. Thank you for opening not just the doors of your churches, but also the doors of your hearts to me. Your love and faith have been the foundation upon which I have built my ministry.
As I look forward to many more years of service, I do so with a heart full of hope and anticipation. Together, we will continue to learn, to grow, and to walk this path of faith and love. Please keep me in your prayers, as you are always in mine.
With prayers and gratitude,
Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan
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