On Wednesday, December 21, 2016, the Western Prelacy was enlivened by a visit from Vahan and Anoush Chamlian School first graders who had come to convey their New Year and Christmas wishes to H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, and spread Christmas cheer and tidings through a festive program of songs, recitations, and dance.
Upon arrival, the sixty-five students, accompanied by Principal Dr. Talin Kargodorian, Vice-Principal Mrs. Rita Kaprielian, teachers, parents, and grandparents headed to the “St. Dertad and St. Ashkhen” Chapel where the Prelate and Archpriest Fr. Nareg Pehlivanian offered a prayer. Executive Council member Mr. Antranig Kasbarian joined in the visit as a grandparent.
The visit continued at the “Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian” Hall, where Armenian teacher Ms. Armenik Hayrapetian delivered opening remarks.
A group of four students greeted the Prelate and guests and conveyed their well wishes and thanks. They stated that their school is “a little Armenia where they speak, read, and pray in Armenian,” and promised to uphold the legacy of St. Mesrob and our forefathers. Donning festive attire, students thereafter enthusiastically presented a Christmas program celebrating the Birth of our Lord Jesus Christ which they said brought faith, hope, love, and peace and wished for these tidings to spread throughout the world and in Aleppo especially.
The Prelate thanked the young students for their visit and joyful program, which he stated illuminated the Prelacy, and reiterated the message that the Birth of Christ brought the faith, hope, love, and peace to mankind. His Eminence commended the students, administrators, and faculty, and wished a happy New Year to all and for the Christmas spirit to enliven their hearts and daily lives. In conclusion, the students presented Christmas gifts to the Prelate, and His Eminence in return presented crosses to the children.
