By the initiative of In Defense of Christians, on Monday, July 15, 2019, a historic ecumenical prayer service was held at the U.S. Capitol for persecuted Christians in the Middle East.
Faith leaders participating in the service were H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, H.E. Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Prelate of the Eastern United States, H.E. The Most Reverend Christophe Pierre (Apostolic Nuncio to the United States), H.E. Metropolitan Joseph Zehlaoui, (Antiochian Orthodox Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of North America), H.E. Archbisohp Elpidophoros (Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America), H.G. Bishop Elias Zaidan, (Eparch of the Maronite Church of the Western United States), H.G. Bishop Gregory Mansour (Eparch of the Maronite Church of the Eastern United States), Pastor Dan Cummins (Founder of Capitol Worship), and clergy members.
The event began with solidarity remarks conveyed by Congressional leaders and dignitaries. ANCA Executive Director Aram Hamparian called for a stronger response to genocide and all atrocities against the innocent.
The ecumenical service followed, during which the Prelates recited prayers. Hymns were sung in the ancient languages of the Middle East.
At the conclusion of the service, participants gathered in the Rotunda where hymns were sung in different languages. For the first time ever, the hymn “Der Voghormya” was sung in the nation’s Capitol, led by the Prelates and accompanying clergy.
