The Establishment of a New Educational Complex Is a Powerful Affirmation of Our National Identity and Collective Belonging, As Emphasized by His Holiness Catholicos Aram I
Following his address to the faithful at St. Garabed Church in Hollywood, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I officiated the opening of the newly built Mher and Satik Der Ohanessian Educational Complex, located adjacent to the church.
Participating in the ceremony were benefactor Mr. Mher Der Ohanessian and his children, along with members of the Central and Executive Councils of the Western Prelacy, the Prelate His Eminence Archbishop Kegham Khatcherian, clergy, national benefactors, representatives of sister organizations, and members of the educational community.
In his Pontifical Message, His Holiness highlighted the deep spiritual and national significance of Armenian education, stating: “The school is just as much a sanctuary for us as the church. The Armenian school is not merely an ordinary place of learning. Through the Armenian school, our children not only acquire knowledge, but they are also imbued with our spiritual, moral, and national values. In other words, the Armenian school crystallizes the Armenian identity and reinforces our people’s sense of belonging.”
Acknowledging the steadfast commitment of the Armenian community in California to Armenian education, His Holiness added, “I especially welcome the growing love, expectation, and attachment of our people in California toward the Armenian school. This positive phenomenon has been concretely exemplified by Mher, in memory of his wife, Satik. I am confident that Mher’s decision to sponsor such an important project stems from his deep commitment to the Armenian school’s mission. I express my high appreciation to Mher and his children. I hope that his exemplary act will inspire others in the United States and throughout our diaspora communities.”
The day concluded with the faithful receiving the Pontifical Blessing of His Holiness, followed by a formal dinner in honor of his visit and the milestone anniversary. The celebration served as a resounding affirmation of the enduring role of Armenian education in preserving national identity and strengthening collective belonging.
