President Sarkissian spoke on the phone with Father Keshishian of the Mekhitarist Congregation: Saint Lazarus today needs our attention and care

President Armen Sarkissian spoke on the phone with Father Hamazasp Keshishian of the Mekhitarist Congregation of St. Lazarus Island.

The President expressed his concern with the situation resulted from the natural disaster and floods in Venice and at St. Lazarus Island and its surroundings in particular. He inquired about the damage caused to St. Lazarus, the Cathedral, and the Murad Rafaelian Seminary and discussed assistance options.

Father Keshishian informed the President in detail about the situation and said that the premise of the Cathedral and surroundings as well as “Armenia” sailboat anchored near the island have suffered considerable damage. Fortunately, the depository of ancient manuscripts of the cloister, the gallery, manuscripts, and the Diwan remained unharmed. They have already started to carry out certain rehabilitation works.

The President expressed his support to Father Keshishian and fathers of the Congregation, who preserve through their dedication and diligence St. Lazarus and the legacy of the Mekhitarians and noted that today St. Lazarus needs our overall attention and care and we need to stand united in the name of preservation of our spiritual heritage, historical and cultural legacy.

Father Hamazasp Keshishian expressed gratitude to President Armen Sarkissian for the phone call and noted that in the concern and care shown by the President of Armenia they see and feel the support of the Armenian state and the entire nation.