This week, the faithful of the Eastern Diocese were deeply moved by the grave news that our Primate, Fr. Mesrop Parsamyan, was seriously injured in an automobile accident.
The accident occurred in the early morning hours of Saturday, July 16. Fr. Parsamyan was traveling to St. Vartan Camp on the New York State Thruway, when short of the camp exit his car swerved off the highway. No other car was involved. He was transported by helicopter to Albany Medical Center. By God’s grace, Fr. Mesrop’s injuries were not life-threatening; however, he sustained damage to his hip and both ankles.
At this writing (July 21), our Primate has undergone extensive surgeries, and physicians are pleased with his progress. The treating physicians are also in contact with peers in Manhattan to facilitate the Primate’s anticipated return to New York City.
We are greatly heartened that Fr. Mesrop is receiving care at Albany Medical Center: a Level-One Trauma and Orthopedic Hospital—highly regarded in the state and national medical community. He is in the very good hands of an excellent team of physicians and surgeons, including a number of area Armenian doctors and nurses who are constantly looking after his well-being.
In addition, members of the Armenian American Health Professionals Organization (AAHPO) are in regular communication with the Diocese and the medical team in Albany, to keep everyone current on Fr. Mesrop’s treatment and status.
As for our Primate himself, he is fully alert, aware, and making decisions about his own health care. He will remain at Albany Medical Center until it is appropriate and safe to transfer him to New York City for continued care and rehabilitation. Certainly, it will be weeks before he will be able to put weight on his legs. But all who know Hayr Sourp are assured that he will meet the challenges before him with determination, work, and faith.
Above all we offer praise to our merciful Lord Jesus, who had his saving hand upon his servant last weekend, and will continue to sustain Hayr Sourp in body and spirit. May the Lord bring healing to Fr. Mesrop, and to all who endure physical and spiritual injuries in our world.
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