Monday, August 21, 2017, marked the start of the 2017-2018 academic year for most Prelacy Schools. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, presided over the back to school ceremony at Ferrahian and Marie Cabayan Schools, while Very Rev. Fr. Torkom Donoyan, Vicar General, Very Rev. Fr. Vache Balekjian, and parish pastors presided over ceremonies in a number of other schools, read the Prelate’s message, and conveyed his blessings and well wishes for a fruitful academic year.
The Prelate highlighted the invaluable and unmatched role and mission of Armenian Schools, stating, “the Armenian School is not an ordinary institution of learning where students develop their minds with knowledge, where they are prepared for higher education and in the future to become productive citizens of society. The Armenian School offers much more than that; the Armenian School, above all, is a special and unique place where love and reverence for our faith and heritage is cultivated in our youth.” Addressing the students directly, the Prelate noted that the young soldiers defending our lands and sacrificing their lives in Artsakh were students just like them a few years ago, adding, “here in the Diaspora the struggle that we face is maintaining our Armenian identity, and you, our youth must become soldiers in that battle.” Next, the Prelate touched upon two upcoming milestone anniversaries, the 100th anniversary of the first Republic of Armenia and the 100th anniversary of Homenetmen, stating that they are both opportunities not only for celebration but also a time to renew and revitalize our faithfulness to upholding the legacy of our forefathers who built our nation. The Prelate concluded his message by blessing and commending the principals, educators, parents, students, Board of Regents of Prelacy Schools, School Boards, Parent-Teacher Committees, sponsors, and community organizations, for their valuable service, support, and encouragement.
