From Diocese of the Armenian Church of Iraq

The Primate of the Armenian Diocese of Iraq, Archbishop Avak Asadourian paid a pastoral visit to the Armenian Church and Community in Basra for four days on July 22-25, 2009. On this visitation Serpazan Hayr was accompanied by Mr. Baruir Hagopian and Mr. Ishkhan Amirkhanian, chairman and member of the Diocesan Council respectively. In Basra they were welcome by Fr. Torkom Torkomian, parish priest of St. Asdvadzadzin Church of Basra, as well as parish council members.

On Wednesday evening His Eminence met with the Armenian Youth of Basra and lectured on topics of interest to the youth such as making the message of the Gospel relative and meaningful in their every-day lives as Armenian young men with a rich tradition. Serpazan's lecture was followed by question and answer period.

On Thursday morning His Eminence and Diocesan Council members held an extensive meeting with the parish priest and parish council members discussing a host of issues facing our Armenian Community in Basra during these difficult times in Iraq. It must be reported that security and every-day life in Basra is better than Baghdad and Mosul, and there is a relative calm in this southern Iraqi city. The Armenian Community in Basra counts some 800 faithful.

On Thursday afternoon Serpazan visited the sick and elderly of the Armenians of Basra. Later, on Thursday night, His Eminence visited the Armenian Youth Association of Basra where the Community was gathered to welcome their stewards from Baghdad. Here, cultural activities were presented such as group and solo patriotic and popular songs. After-wards Serpazan addressed the Armenian public encouraging them to adhere to their faith and become devoted sons and daughters of their Mother Church, holding fast to the Armenian language and culture. After an absence of 4 years this cultural center re-organized itself and started its activities with a new committee comprised of youth who are working hard in maintaining and upholding our Cultural heritage.

On Friday, July 24, His Eminence celebrated Divine Liturgy and delivered the Sermon. Clergymen from sister Churches attended our Badarak. Most of those attending Church services received Holy Communion.

On Saturday morning His Eminence together with the accompanying delegation returned to Baghdad.

PS/ Some photos are attached by Vahe Avedisian

Divan of the Diocese