Abp. Elpidophoros Joins Catholicos Aram I to Celebrate 30th Enthronement Anniversary

SOURCE: Orthodox Times

NEW YORK — Abp. Elpidophoros of America attended a special concert at New York's iconic Carnegie Hall on Thursday, November 13, 2025, to honor the 30th anniversary of the enthronement of Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

According to a report from the Orthodox Times, the evening event featured a performance by renowned Armenian-Canadian soprano Isabel Bayrakdarian and her ensemble, drawing an audience of clergy, faithful, and dignitaries from various Christian traditions. The concert served as a highlight of Catholicos Aram I's month-long pastoral visit to North America, which has included engagements in Canada and several locations along the U.S. West Coast.

During the celebration, Abp. Elpidophoros extended congratulations to Catholicos Aram I on reaching this significant milestone in the leadership of the Armenian Church. The Archbishop also expressed his belief in the importance of ongoing dialogue and cooperation. He expressed sincere hopes for rapprochement between the Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox Churches.

Catholicos Aram I, a prominent figure in Oriental Orthodoxy and a longtime advocate for ecumenism, has led the Catholicosate of Cilicia—headquartered in Antelias, Lebanon—since his enthronement in 1995. His tenure has been marked by efforts to preserve Armenian Christian heritage in the diaspora, promote interfaith dialogue, and address humanitarian issues affecting Armenian communities worldwide.

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