Interns Discuss Religion and Politics with Diocesan Legate Archbishop Vicken Aykazian
Washington, D.C. - On June 18th, the Terjenian-Thomas Assembly Internship Program participants met with Archbishop Vicken Aykazian who serves as the Diocesan Legate in Washington, D.C. and the Ecumenical Director of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America.
As Archbishop Aykazian shared his experiences and understanding of Armenian culture, religion, and history, the interns listened diligently and were intrigued to learn more about his background. Serena Hajjar, who is interning at the Armenian National Institute (ANI) appreciated the depth of the Archbishopâs historical knowledge, especially that of the Armenian Diaspora. "Absorbing the Archbishopâs experiences and approach to Armenian issues inspired me to look at more innovative and creative ways in which I can contribute to the Armenian cause both within the Diaspora and in our motherland,â Hajjar said.
In addition to his clerical responsibilities, Archbishop Aykazian is an advocate for Christian minorities in the Middle East. He participated in President Donald Trump's signing ceremony for the Iraq and Syria Genocide Emergency Relief and Accountability Act, which promotes accountability for crimes committed by ISIS and provides relief to persecuted religious groups in those countries. Archbishop Aykazian was appointed as a member of the World Council of Churches and had served on President Barrack Obama's Advisory Committee on FaithBased Initiatives. By appointment, he was also chosen to be the President of Christian Churches Together and President of Habitat for Humanity Europe, Africa, and Central Asia.
The interns were especially curious about the Archbishopâs work related to his travels to Jerusalem, Istanbul, Switzerland, and Armenia. Among each Armenian community, the Archbishop noticed resilience and strength in addition to the very rich Armenian cultural heritage. He explained to the interns that he believes the Armenian Apostolic Church is what has kept Armenians across the world unified despite the distance between them.
Armen Kaprelian, who is interning with the Republic of Artsakh's Permanent Mission to the United States and Canada was very impressed by how the Archbishop viewed his role âas one of not only carrying out religious doctrine but also fostering the Armenian culture, Diasporan relations, and over-watch of charitable organizations.â After the meeting, Armen was excited to learn that his grandfather and Archbishop Aykazian had been good friends while living in Armenia.
After two hours of continuous discussion and questions, Archbishop Aykazian offered moral and spiritual advice to our interns. He said: âBe good, compassionate people above all else, work hard, act with honesty and integrity, and take pride in our wealthy, beautiful Armenian heritage.â These words left the group feeling inspired and empowered to move forward with faith and strength to help Armenia.
