On January 9, 2026, the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia to the United States hosted a formal reception at the Washington National Cathedral, marking the sacred Feast of the Nativity and Theophany of Our Lord Jesus Christ (Armenian Christmas) and honoring the forthcoming 250th Anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America.

Remarks were delivered by His Excellency Narek Mkrtchyan, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to the United States; Pastor Paula White-Cain, Special Government Employee and Senior Advisor of the White House Faith Office; His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church in the United States; His Grace Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan, Primate of the Eastern Diocese; and Pastor Chris Halverson, Minister at Large at the International Foundation.

During the event, Ambassador Narek Mkrtchyan read the message of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, addressed to the attendees.

In his address, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian reflected on the spiritual significance of the Feast of the Nativity within the Armenian Church. “From the earliest centuries of Christianity as a state religion in 301 A.D.,” His Eminence noted, “the Armenian people have received and lived the Gospel with perseverance and hope, often under difficult circumstances. Yet the message of the Incarnation has remained at the heart of our witness: that God is faithful, that suffering does not have the final word, and that light endures.”

Archbishop Derderian further reflected on the enduring contributions of Armenian Americans as the United States prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary of independence. “For generations, Armenians have found refuge, opportunity, and freedom in this land,” he stated. “They have enriched the spiritual, cultural, and civic life of the nation, while remaining steadfastly rooted in their faith and heritage.”

The Diocesan Primate also spoke to the deepening bond between the Republic of Armenia and the United States, emphasizing that this relationship has been shaped by mutual respect, cooperation, and shared values. “Such bonds are strongest when grounded in truth, compassion, and a sincere desire for peace,” he observed. “Christmas reminds us that these ties are not merely political or historical, but profoundly human.”

The reception was attended by high-ranking officials of the United States government, representatives of diverse religious traditions, ambassadors, Honorary Consuls of the Republic of Armenia, and members of the Armenian community from across the country.

In his remarks, Ambassador Mkrtchyan extended warm Christmas greetings and underscored the vital role of Christian values in Armenia–U.S. relations. He highlighted the leadership of the United States in advancing religious freedom worldwide, expressed appreciation to the Washington National Cathedral for hosting the event, and conveyed best wishes to the American people as they approach the milestone anniversary of their nation’s independence.

Pastor Paula White-Cain thanked the Ambassador for organizing the reception and reflected on Armenia’s unique place in history as the world’s first Christian nation. She noted that despite centuries of hardship, the Armenian people have preserved their spiritual heritage and continue to serve as a witness of faith to the world, reaffirming that the United States stands with the Armenian people in a spirit of faith, partnership, and shared purpose.

Pastor Chris Halverson emphasized the significance of organizing the Prayer Breakfast in Armenia, noting that it reflects the nation’s commitment to faith, unity, and principled leadership.

The participating spiritual leaders offered heartfelt congratulations on the Glorious Feast of Christmas and lifted prayers for peace, unity, and continued blessings.

The evening was enriched by a cultural program featuring performances by internationally acclaimed pianist and professor Nare Arghamanyan of the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, along with soloist Edita Dolunts-Kalayjian and organist Armine Khachatryan. Works by renowned Armenian artist Armen Kankanian were also exhibited throughout the event.

The reception concluded in a spirit of reverence and unity with the Lord’s Prayer, beautifully performed by the students of the Sunday School of St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church of Washington, D.C.