In Washington, DC, Diocesan Primate Bishop Daniel spoke at a special reception at the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia to the United States, during which the community bid farewell to the outgoing Ambassador Varuzhan Nersesyan.
Accompanying the Primate to the July 19 gathering was Fr. Hovsep Karapetyan, pastor of the city’s St. Mary Church. Attending the reception were leaders of the Armenian-American community and its institutions, as well as dignitaries from the diplomatic field and the U.S. government—among them Congressional Representatives Jackie Speier (CA) and Frank Pallone (NJ).
In his remarks on the occasion, Bishop Daniel paid tribute to Ambassador Nersesyan’s service during a time of many trials for Armenia, America, and the world. “He showed himself to be a consummate professional, serving the Republic of Armenia with dignity, and making all American-Armenians proud,” the Bishop said.
He spoke, too, of the personal friendship that emerged between them, during weekly conference calls involving Ambassador Nersesyan, Bishop Daniel, and Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian. “The Ambassador initiated these weekly meetings when he first took up his role in the U.S., during which we would update one another on current events in Armenia and in our communities. It’s been a great privilege to cultivate such a close relationship.” He blessed the Nersesyan family as the Ambassador moves on to a new mission in service to our homeland.
During the farewell reception Bishop Daniel took the opportunity to speak to Representatives Speier and Pallone—both longtime activists on behalf of Armenian causes (Rep. Speier is herself of Armenian descent)—to thank them on behalf of the Eastern Diocese for their friendship and support of Armenia, Artsakh, and Genocide recognition.
Click on the following links to view photos, and to watch a video of Bishop Daniel’s remarks.