From late June to July 11, the ACYOA Juniors of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America embarked on a pilgrimage to Armenia as part of the ACYOA Juniors' Armenia Service Program (ASP). This annual journey is designed for young participants aged 14 to 17.
On July 3, the Armenian-American youth visited the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin and met with His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians. The meeting was also attended by Rev. Fr. Tovma Khachatryan, the Spiritual Responsible of the Armenian Church Youth Organization.
His Holiness blessed and congratulated the young participants for deepening their connection to their faith and heritage in their homeland.
During their journey, the church-loving Armenian-American youth visited Khor Virap, Noravank, Areni Cave, and other significant sites.
In the final days of their trip, the Juniors met with their ACYOA Seniors ASP peers, who had just arrived in Armenia.