During a meeting in Armenia, June 3-10, members of the Brotherhood of Holy Etchmiadzin discussed how to employ social media as a tool for evangelization and education. A total of 81 celibate priests took part in the meeting, which was presided over by His Holiness Karekin II, the Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, and chaired by Fr. Nareg Berberian.
At the invitation of His Holiness Karekin II, Dn. Artur Petrosyan, of the Eastern Diocese’s Communications Department, gave a presentation on social media. Dn. Petrosyan spoke about the use of YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and other platforms to spread the teachings of the Armenian Church. He also stressed the growing number of mobile phone users and the need to develop religious applications for the mobile community. A discussion followed the presentation.
Members of the Brotherhood of Holy Etchmiadzin also had an opportunity to participate in “One Day in the Diocese”—a day-long pastoral outreach program in Armavir. Clergy visited families, conducted home blessings, and spent time at local schools, hospitals, and youth centers.
On the eve of the Feast of the Catholic Church of Holy Etchmiadzin, clergy took part in the Divine Liturgy at the cathedral. They also participated in the Divine Liturgy at the churches of St. Hripsime, St. Gayane, Holy Shoghagat, and Khor Virab.
