A New Era Begins for the Armenian Community in Istanbul: The Newly Elected Patriarch's Greeting

The Armenian Patriarchate of Istanbul will build a new community with new compositions, programs, and initiatives. This was stated by the newly elected Patriarch Sahak Bishop Mashalian on December 11, addressing representatives of the community and clergymen inside the Holy Mother of God Cathedral.

“We need renewal—spiritually and intellectually. Our institutions need to be revitalized; my election should be the first step. We have an example of leadership in front of us—Jesus Christ, who washed the feet of his disciples and showed how to be a good shepherd. Today, you did not choose a patriarch; you chose the first servant of God and the nation,” said Sahak Bishop Mashalian.

He noted that a grand ceremony for the patriarchal consecration and enthronement will take place, at which the official patriarchal message will be directed. “But now, I must ask you to pray for me. When you see that your patriarch is weakening, pray even more for him. The fact that we elected a patriarch in peace happened thanks to the prayers of thousands of people,” the newly elected patriarch remarked, expressing gratitude to all who participated and to the other candidate for patriarch, the Chairman of the Religious Council of the Patriarchate of Istanbul, Archbishop Aram Ateshian, and his supporters.