WASHINGTON, D.C. — On January 9, the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia to the United States organized a formal reception at the Washington National Cathedral to celebrate Armenian Christmas and the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Remarks were delivered by the Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the United States, Narek Mkrtchyan; Paula White-Cain, Pastor, Special Government Employee, and Senior Advisor of the White House Faith Office; Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church in the United States; Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, Primate of the Eastern Diocese; and Pastor Chris Halverson.
During the event, Ambassador Mkrtchyan read a message from the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, addressed to the attendees.
The reception was attended by senior U.S. government officials, representatives of various religious institutions, ambassadors, Honorary Consuls of the Republic of Armenia, and members of the Armenian community in the United States.
In his remarks, Ambassador Mkrtchyan extended Christmas greetings, emphasized the role of Christian values in Armenia–U.S. relations, highlighted the leadership of the United States in promoting religious freedom, expressed gratitude to the Washington National Cathedral for hosting the event, and wished the United States continued success on the occasion of its 250th anniversary.
In her address, Paula White-Cain thanked the Ambassador for organizing the Christmas reception, underscored Prime Minister Pashinyan’s dedication to the Armenian people, and noted that Armenia, as the world’s first Christian nation, has endured many trials throughout history while preserving its spiritual heritage and bearing witness to faith globally. She emphasized that the United States stands with the Armenian people in a spirit of faith, partnership, and shared values.
Pastor Chris Halverson highlighted the importance of Prime Minister Pashinyan’s initiative to organize the Prayer Breakfast in Armenia, noting that it reflects the country’s commitment to faith, unity, and leadership.
The participating spiritual leaders congratulated those present on the Glorious Feast of Christmas and offered prayers.
The cultural program featured performances by Nare Arghamanyan, pianist and professor at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna; soloist Edita Dolunts-Kalayjian; and organist Armine Khachatryan. Works by Armenian artist Armen Kankanian were also exhibited during the event.
The reception concluded with the Lord’s Prayer, performed by students of the Sunday School of St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church.
