Monday, July 27, 2020 marked the 37th anniversary of the martyrdom of the Lisbon 5, Simon Yahniyan, Vatche Daghlian, Sarkis Abrahamian, Ara Kuhrjulian, Setrak Ajemian.
By the ordinance of H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, on Sunday, July 26, requiem prayers were offered for the repose of the souls of our young martyrs. The Prelate presided over Divine Liturgy and delivered his message at St. Garabed Church in Hollywood.
Following his sermon on the day’s Gospel reading, His Eminence spoke on the legacy of the five young heroes who, by sacrificing their lives, reminded the world that the Armenian people have not and will never forget our rights and will fight until we achieve justice. “On July 27, 1983, the Lisbon 5 joined the ranks of our martyrs throughout our history who gave their lives for our faith, nation, and national rights. Indeed our history is rich with brave martyrs, from the battle of Vartanants, to liberation struggles in the 19th century, to Sardarabad, to the Artsakh liberation movement. Today, the brave soldiers of the Armenian Army defend our lands with the same spirit of sacrifice, with the same initiative and conviction, and with the same courage,” stated the Prelate.
His Eminence highlighted the selflessness and patriotism of the Lisbon 5 which became an inspiration and example for future generations; with their blood they testified that our struggle does not recognize retreat or weakness, that we are the rightful owners of our lands and inheritance, that neither fire, nor sword, nor time will shake our conviction. “Today, as we pray tribute to their memory once again, we pray for the Lord to grant eternal rest to their souls and to grant us the courage and means to continue their path.
We pray also for the souls of the young soldiers we lost during Azerbaijan’s latest attack on our homeland. Respect to the Lisbon heroes and respect to all of our martyrs,” concluded the Prelate.
