Christian solidarity at the commemoration of the holy martyrs

who sacrificed their lives during the Armenian Genocide

Friday, May 16, 2025 His Grace Bishop Ioan Casian participated in the commemoration of the holy martyrs who sacrificed themselves for faith and country during the Armenian Genocide. The Romanian hierarch responded to the invitation of Bishop Abgar Hovakimyan, primate of the Armenian Diocese of Canada.

The service took place in the Notre Dame Catholic Cathedral in Ottawa.

Also participating in the event were the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Ottawa – Cornwall, Marcel Damphousse (host of the event), Apostolic Nuncio to Canada archbishop Ivan Jurkovic, Vicar Bishop Yvan Mathieu and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Mrs. Anahit Harutyunyan. Priests from several jurisdictions and Christian denominations were also present: Romanian Orthodox (Archpriest Grigorie Țăpuc), Greek, Roman Catholic, Armenian, Coptic, Ethiopian, as well as many believers.

Special prayers, hymns and songs dedicated to this moment were recited. The event was organized in honor of the commemoration of the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.

In the letter of response His Grace Bishop Ioan Casian said:

“The profound tragedy endured by the Armenian people reminds us all that such suffering can occur anywhere and at any time. We live in a world already burdened by hardships. Without Christian vigilance, the cultivation of virtue, a life of prayer, and an authentic search for justice, peace, truth, dignity, unity, and love, we will not be able to build a society in accordance with God’s divine plan.

May God grant us the strength, patience, endurance, faith, and love to work for a more just, united, and peaceful world and to fulfill His holy will in our lives.”

A short reception was held at the end of the event, during which those present were able to talk and get to know each other.