Armenian Reporter:

Abp. Barsamian welcomes Amb. Yovanovich to St. Vartan Cathedral

Published: Thursday June 25, 2009

From the first days of Armenia's independence; through long, difficult years of scarcity and recovery; and at every step on the road to building a stable, democratic society, the United States of America has stood by our people – not simply as an inspiration and beacon of hope, but also as a partner, a generous friend, a welcoming sponsor into the family of free nations.

All of us have been privileged to take part in this friendship – and some of us have witnessed its milestones at first hand. I can vividly recall standing before the Hrastan Hotel in Yerevan, and watching the American flag rising up – signifying that an American embassy had been established in a free Armenia.

Later, I recall watching the construction of the new U.S. embassy building, and feeling in my heart that here was the physical symbol of an enduring American presence in Armenia – and a symbol, too, of the enduring partnership between the two nations.

But two images stand out in my mind, which powerfully illustrate the nature of the relationship between Armenia and America.

The first is from the early days of Armenia's rebirth as a republic. They were difficult times, and the U.S. State Department had signed an agreement with the Diocese to deliver humanitarian aid – food, medicine, fuel – to our homeland. We awaited the delivery at Zvartnots Airport, and it arrived on gigantic American planes – the C5 Galaxy transports. We showed film of the majestic landing to Catholicos Vasken I, of blessed memory, and he turned and said to me: "Like angels they come to us."

Vehapar was right: the American servicemen were indeed "like angels": strong and powerful, to be sure, but acting out of benevolence, good will, generosity. All that power, in the service of Good. For all of us here, that is the perfect description of America.

I will never forget Vehapar's words. Nor will I forget the touching revelation that the U.S. Air Force pilot who brought the giant plane to Armenia was a young Armenian-American, Captain Tom Kapikian – whose grandfather had been one of the godfathers of this very cathedral.

My second powerful memory came on a day of supreme sorrow: September 11, 2001. That day is seared into all our memories. Here in New York, at this cathedral, we saw the great tide of people choking the streets, as they walked north through the city, away from the devastation. And as they passed, countless people, from every conceivable background, took a moment to approach the cathedral, enter into its quiet sanctuary, light a candle, meditate, pray, or simply find rest.

That day, more than anything else, made me realize that this place is not just an Armenian institution. We are an American institution, as well – an example, a friend, a home, to this entire city, and to all our fellow countrymen. Mayor Michael Bloomberg graced us with a visit several weeks ago, and he remarked to us that he recalled how this cathedral had been built by survivors of the Armenian Genocide, and because of that, he said, "it serves as a powerful reminder to all peoples of the ability to create and beautify from the ashes of grief."

That was truly the role we played on September 11. And it symbolizes the role each of us, as American citizens, of Armenian heritage, will always play in the life of this great and good nation. We will always support and love the Republic of Armenia; we will always support and love the United States of America – no matter the circumstance, in times of joy and prosperity, in times of sorrow and disappointment. Nothing will separate us from this bond.

Ambassador Yovanovitch, having met you on two previous occasions in Armenia – once with the Fund for Armenian Relief board and Diocesan Council, and also in a private meeting at the embassy – I know that these same ideals speak to you, as well; and inspire you in your mission as U.S. ambassador to Armenia.

Since the tenure of Ambassador Harry Gilmore, this center has been a welcoming home to all of our country's ambassadors to our homeland. In welcoming you to New York and the Diocesan Center this evening, I want you to know that now, this place is your home, too.

Thank you for spending this time with us, for giving us the opportunity to share your vision and concerns for our homeland. May your mission to Armenia continue to bear fruit for both countries. And may God always guide and strengthen you in all your endeavors.

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