YEREVAN, JUNE 24, ARMENPRESS. Pope John Paul II first visited Armenia back in 2001, on September 25, on the occasion of the 1700th anniversary of the adoption of Christianity.

Upon landing in Armenia, Pope John Paul blessed Armenia and the people gathered in the airport, and according to the tradition, kissed the Armenian soil. He greeted the gathered people by saying “God Bless Armenia” in Armenian.

Photos by Armenpress

On the first day of the visit, Pope John Paul issued a message, which in particular said:

“I express my appreciation and friendship to not only your countrymen who live in the Motherland, but also to millions of Armenians throughout the world, who remain faithful to their heritage and identity and today look at their Motherland with renewed admiration and satisfaction”, the “Republic of Armenia” newspaper wrote.

On September 26, Pope John Paul visited the Armenian Genocide Memorial – Tsisternakaberd.

The Pope bowed to the Armenian Genocide Memorial in the memory of the millions of victims and prayed for them. During his speech, he said “Mets Eghern” in Armenian.

Charles Aznavour performed “Ave Maria” during the Pope’s visit.

Pope John Paul blessed the eternal green tree which was planted from his name, which has a Papal inscription next to it : “Remember, Father, the sufferings of this nation’s sons and bless Armenia”.

An ecumenical ceremony took place on September 26 in St. Gregory the Illuminator Cathedral in Yerevan led by Pope John Paul and Catholicos of All Armenian Garegin II.