Before departing for Armenia on the evening of September 26, Fr. Mesrop Parsamyan wrote a message to the faithful of the Eastern Diocese, reflecting on his upcoming ordination as a bishop, and on the road ahead for our Diocese and our homeland.
A Message to Our Faithful
As I stand here in JFK Airport, about to embark on a deeply meaningful journey to Armenia for my ordination as Bishop, my thoughts are consumed by the gravity of the moment and the situation facing our people in Artsakh.
The skies may be clear here, but the atmosphere is clouded by the urgency and sorrows stemming from a land close to my heart. Refugees are pouring into Armenia, each carrying a heavy burden of loss, uncertainty, and yet an indomitable spirit that defines who we are as Armenians.
I go to Armenia not just to take on a title, but to embrace a responsibility. A responsibility to my faith, my people here at the Eastern Diocese, and most importantly, to God. My robes and staff are not just vestments and objects; they are symbols of a calling to serve, to guide, and to be a pillar of faith in trying times.
I thank the faithful people of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America for the incredible trust and support placed in me. Your votes and prayers have elected me as your Primate, and it is this collective faith that propels me toward my ordination as Bishop.
The Eastern Diocese is more than a geographical entity; it’s a spiritual family—a community that, like Armenia itself, has faced adversity and shown resilience time and again. As I take these upcoming steps to serve you better, as your Bishop, I carry each of your hopes, prayers, and dreams with me.
Your support has granted me both purpose and perspective as I undertake this sacred obligation. Just as you have uplifted me during my recovery, I promise to uplift, offering pastoral guidance and spiritual support.
So, it is with a heart full of gratitude and a soul committed to service that I depart today. Thank you for entrusting me with this ministry, and for being a constant source of inspiration and spiritual strength.
Please keep me, and our suffering brothers and sisters in Artsakh, in your prayers.
With love and gratitude,
Fr. Mesrop Parsamyan