For the past five years, under the initiative of the Catholic Church, a special conference has been organized for young clergy of Eastern Orthodox Churches, providing them with the opportunity to visit the Vatican, familiarize themselves with its programs and initiatives, and meet with His Holiness Pope Francis.
With the blessing and directive of His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia, young clergy have participated in this program on behalf of the Catholicosate of the Holy See of Cilicia. This year, the conference is scheduled to take place from January 29 to February 9.
By the arrangement of H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, the Western Prelacy will be represented at the conference by Rev. Fr. Karekin Bedourian, Pastor of Forty Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church of Orange County.
During the visit, the young clergy will tour the headquarters of the Catholic Church in the Vatican, exploring its various religious and administrative departments and centers while engaging in meetings with key religious figures overseeing these institutions. Participants will gain firsthand insight into the Catholic Church’s programs, challenges, and ongoing initiatives.
The program will also include visits to the Vatican Library and Museum, monasteries, universities, manuscript centers, historical sites, churches, and sacred landmarks. Through these visits, participants will receive extensive information through lectures and professional presentations focusing on the establishment, historical development, programs, and mission of these institutions. Additionally, the visit will serve as a platform for exchanging valuable Christian experiences, fostering dialogue among clergy from diverse ministerial backgrounds.
As a highlight of the conference, the visiting clergy will have the honor of meeting His Holiness Pope Francis, head of the Catholic Church, and attending the Catholic Church’s Sunday Divine Liturgy at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.
