By the order of Bishop Meghrig Parikian, Prelate, Prelacy churches across Canada will offer prayers and bless the tricolor flag on the occasion of the 97th anniversary of the first Armenian Republic and the 24th anniversary of the current Republic of Armenia this Sunday, May 31. Requiem service will be offered for the souls of the fallen heroes of Sardarabad, Bashabaran, Gharakilise, and the new martyrs of the struggle for Artsakh.

The official definition of the colors, as stated in the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia, is: “The Red emblematizes the Armenian Highland, the Armenian people’s continued struggle for survival, maintenance of the Christian faith, Armenia’s independence and freedom. The Blue emblematizes the will of the people of Armenia to live beneath peaceful skies. The Orange emblematizes the creative talent and hard-working nature of the people of Armenia.”

O Benevolent God, preserve from misfortune the peace that you have given us, save from evil the freedom that you have granted us, and direct all of our lives towards good works. Remember in your mercy the souls of our many martyrs, who have placed themselves on the altar of our nation’s liberation, and make them worthy of the luminous, immortal and heavenly crown. Have mercy on all those who have worked and labored for the liberation of our nation and the building of our fatherland. Preserve the Republic of Armenia and aid all of our ministers and generals, troops and soldiers, by keeping them in peace. O Lord our God, preserve in peace the Catholicoi of our nation and all of the clergy of your Holy Church.

From
“Prayer of Thanksgiving for the Republic of Armenia,”
Prepared in 1920
By Archbishop Torkom Koushagian