“PATRIOTISM WITHOUT A UNITED COMMITMENT WILL BEAR NO FRUIT, SIMILAR TO A GREEN BUT FRUITLESS TREE” H.E. ARCHBISHOP KEGHAM KHACHERIAN
On Sunday, September 22, 2024, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, presided over a Divine Liturgy at St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in Pasadena. H.E. Archbishop Khacherian conveyed his well wishes on Armenia’s independence, blessed the Armenian flag brought to the altar by Homenetmen Scouts, and offered a prayer emphasizing patriotism in his message. In his sermon, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian stated “Lord, remember all our martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the salvation of our nation, let them be worthy of your divine light and unfading crown.” The Divine Liturgy was attended by Mr. Sarkis Tatikian, Executive Council member of the Western Prelacy of the United States, and faithful parishioners.
During his sermon, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian highlighted the significance of selfless Armenians, martyred freedom fighters, and courageous heroes as the epitome of patriotism. The Prelate stressed that patriotism is not just a sentiment, but a lifestyle encompassing practical actions and work, charitable deeds, service, and even selflessness. H.E. Archbishop Khacherian drew a comparison by stating that patriotism without practical application and work is like a tree with lush green foliage that does not bear any fruit.
H.E. Archbishop Khacherian described patriotism in three different tiers, explaining that the first tier is our personal level, the second is at the family level, and the third level involves a broader sense of collective patriotism. The Western Prelacy, under the auspices of the Catholicosate of the Holy See of Cilicia, leads its patriotic activities and initiatives, and by pursuing its mission it empowers and fortifies our nation and homeland.
