Throughout the year, students from various Prelacy Schools visit the Prelacy where they have the opportunity to meet with H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, and become better familiarized with the endeavors and mission of the Prelacy.
The first student visit of 2014 took place on Thursday, February 6th, with the arrival of the Ferrahian School 8th grade class, who were accompanied by their Principal, Mr. John Kossakian, and teacher, Ms. Seza Kurdian. His Eminence was joined by Rev. Fr. Boghos Tinkjian and Archpriest Fr. Nareg Pehlivanian.
The visit began with a prayer service led by the Prelate in the St. Dertad and St. Ashkhen Chapel. His Eminence explained why the Chapel is named St. Dertad and St. Ashkhen, noting that it was built in the Year of the Armenian Family, and given that St. Dertad and St. Ashkhen were the first Christian Armenian family, it was only fitting to have the Chapel dedicated in their honor.
The students then headed to the Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian Hall. Mr. Kossakian thanked the Prelate for the visit, them briefly presented the mission and role of the Holy See of Cilicia and the Prelacy to the students. The Principal also noted that there are students who alongside their studies make time to serve the Church as acolytes and deacons. A video prepared by the class followed, with simultaneous recitations by each student.
The Prelate explained the different ranks within the Church, and the duties of each, to encourage the students to participate in the life of our Church starting from a young age. A question and answer session followed on faith, our church, and social issues. While His Eminence was speaking on the virtues of faith, hope, and love, he presented the students with a memento symbolizing these virtues to hang in their classroom. The students thanked the Prelate for the gift and also for the educational visit which enhanced their knowledge of our Church.
The program concluded with the Prelate’s benediction and the Cilician anthem sung by the students. The students were then given a tour of the headquarters and information on the endeavors of each department.
