On October 29, 2025, in a powerful address to the Armenian youth of Los Angeles, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I called for the full integration of the younger generation into the collective life of the nation. The special gathering, held at the Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School, brought together students from local Armenian schools, including Ferrahian, Mesrobian, Shamlian, and Manoukian-Demirdjian.
The event commenced with welcoming remarks from Principal Dr. Souzy Ohanian, who expressed the community’s honor in hosting His Holiness. Student representatives from each school then offered their own words of welcome.
His Eminence Archbishop Kegham Khatcherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy, set the tone for the historic visit, emphasizing that His Holiness consistently prioritizes meetings with youth during his pontifical visits, viewing them as the strength and future of the Armenian nation.
In his keynote address, His Holiness Aram I spoke passionately about the indispensable role of youth. “It is unacceptable to treat youth as a group on the margins of our lives,” he stated. “Whether educated in universities or by life itself, our youth must be active in all spheres of our community.”
Central to his message was the critical need for mutual dialogue. “When I meet with youth, I consider it a dialogue. Just as you listen to me, I must listen to you,” His Holiness said. “In our families and institutions, one-way communication is not acceptable. We must hear the voices of our youth, their concerns, expectations, and aspirations.”
Addressing contemporary national challenges, His Holiness framed them as a call to action. “Today, we face many difficulties concerning Armenia, Artsakh, and the Diaspora. To me, every difficulty is a challenge. Our youth must be informed, aware, and ready to respond to these realities.”
He concluded with a charge to the students to be profound and authentic contributors. “Stay away from superficiality. Don’t simply repeat what others say. Be yourselves, but do so within the context of our collective national life.”
Following the address, the event transitioned into an open forum where students engaged His Holiness in a thoughtful question-and-answer session. His Holiness responded warmly to inquiries about the Church, Diaspora life, and national issues, offering guidance and encouragement to the next generation of Armenian leaders.
