Under the guidance and blessing of His Grace Bishop Oshagan Gulgulian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of Iraq, twelve young men and women from various Armenian churches across Iraq participated in a spiritual youth pilgrimage to Armenia from July 2 to 7, 2025.
This special visit marked the 25th anniversary of the founding of the Armenian Church Youth Organization (HEHEM) and was held under the theme:
“The Christian Family is the Core of Armenian Identity.”
The event brought together around 300 young people from Armenia and the Armenian diaspora, uniting them in a celebration of faith and heritage.
The official opening took place on July 3, presided over by His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians. In his address, His Holiness expressed joy at seeing such a vibrant gathering of youth at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, encouraging them to deepen their faith in God, renew their connection to the sacred spiritual center, and strengthen their sense of belonging and commitment to the Armenian homeland.
He said:
“Only by preserving our spiritual and national values can we safeguard our Armenian identity—both in Armenia and in the diaspora.”
During the first two days, the HEHEM Central Office organized an educational program titled:
“The Christian Family as the Core of Armenian Identity.”
Participants also visited several sacred sites in Kotayk and Gegharkunik provinces. One of the highlights was the visit to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, where the youth participated in the Divine Liturgy led by Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church in the United States and General Supervisor of HEHEM.
At the end of the visit, all participants received certificates of participation, honoring their commitment and engagement in this meaningful spiritual and cultural gathering.
