Patriarch Menassian commemorates first anniversary of Bishop Maloyan's sainthood

Patriarch Raphael Bedros XXI Menassian, Catholicos of the Armenian Catholic Patriarchate of Cilicia, presided over a celebratory Mass in Beirut to mark the first anniversary of the declaration of sainthood for Martyr Bishop Ignatius Maloyan by the Catholic Church in Rome.

The ceremony took place at the Cathedral of Saints Gregory the Illuminator and Elijah the Prophet in central Beirut. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Information Minister Paul Morcos, representing the Presidency and Government, and MP Hagop Bakradounian, representing the Parliament. Other attendees included Syriac Catholic Patriarch Joseph III Younan, various church leaders, military and security representatives, and political figures.

During his sermon, Patriarch Menassian emphasized that the declaration of sainthood is an recognition of God's grace and a call for the Church to renew itself through faith. He highlighted Bishop Maloyan's steadfastness in the face of persecution and his refusal to deny his faith to save his life. Additionally, the Patriarch called upon the youth to remain engaged, stating that the Church needs their energy and creativity, and the nation requires their presence and initiative.