The National Genocide Commemoration Committee held a series of spectacular events in Washington DC from May 7-9. Thousands of faithful waited on line for hours to witness the moving Ecumenical Service at the National Cathedral on Thursday evening, May 7. The services, which included His Holiness Karekin II, His Holiness Aram I, His Holiness Ignatius Aphrem II, the Syrian Patriarch and many clergymen and women from various denominations, gave a strong message of solidarity for the recognition of the Armenian Genocide. The President of the Republic of Armenia Serj Sargisyan and the Vice President of the US Joseph Biden were in attendance at the service. On Friday evening, May 8, the Strathmore Concert Hall was the sold out venue for an evening of Armenian music. The program, attended by both Catholicoi, included world renowned vocalists, musicians and the Yerevan Philharmonic Orchestra. On Saturday, May 9, a Pontifical Badarak was celebrated by His Holiness Karekin II at the magnificent Basilica of the Immaculate Conception on the campus of Catholic University. Delegates from Holy Martyrs and St. Sarkis Church, under the direction of Fr. Nareg Terterian, were privileged to serve as ushers for the Badarak. A sold out Gala Banquet at the Marriott Marquis was attended by over 2000 people on Saturday evening, where numerous awards were given out to individuals and organizations that have contributed to the Armenian cause.

Click here to watch the Ecumenical Service.
Click here to watch the Pontifical Badarak.