Volodymyr Lytvyn, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, calls on the Church to take up a more Active Mission in the Public Enlightenment and Support

12 July 2011, 10:02

Addressing Catholicos of all Armenians, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Volodymyr Lytvyn stated that relations between Ukraine and Armenia have reached a new standard. "We established an efficient dialogue between the residents, dynamic inter-governmental contacts, and effective inter-parliamentary cooperation," he declared. "We are united by a common religion and culture. I am convinced that our nations have much in common taking into consideration our rises and declines.".

 

The Head of the Ukrainian Parliament is against considering only tragic chapters in the history. However, he is convinced that lessons should be learned, as our nations deserve better life and destiny.

 

V. Lytvyn informed Catholicos of all Armenians that on July 9, President of Ukraine conferred a title of the Hero of Ukraine on Primate of Orthodox Church of Ukraine, Metropolitan of Kyiv and All Ukraine Volodymyr. Volodymyr Lytvyn believes that it undescores importance of the Church and religious advisors in consolidating the nation.

 

Catholicos of all Armenians is content with the relations between Ukraine and Armenia and their development. He also attaches great importance to the activity of the Armenian community in Ukraine. "We express gratitude to the leaders of Ukraine and Ukrainian people for their goodwill towards the Armenian diaspora in Ukraine. We pray the Lord to help our nations", he stated.

 

According to the priest, Ukrainian and Armenian nations are Christian and monoreligious, while their cultures support these values. "Christian faith is a uniting factor and an important foundation for mutual understanding, respect and cooperation," he stated. "Church can become a force that impedes progress; then religious extremism bursts out. On the other hand, church and faith can support collective development. We are glad that Christian churches took up this mission in the national and global life."

 

V.Lytvyn stressed that Ukrainian authorities do not interfere in the church affairs. At the same time, they call on the church to take up a more active mission of public enlightenment and support.  

 

The Head of the Ukrainian Parliament presented an icon of XIX century "Coronation of Mary" to the Armenian priest.

 

Ukrainian delegation visited the oldest Christian church in Armenia.