AKHTALTSKHA, Georgia–The Armenian Relief Society celebrated its 100th anniversary in Javakhk on Sunday with an event marking the organization’s century of service at the Cultural House of Akhaltskha.
The event was opened with the Lord’s Prayer by Father Tigran Mkhitarian of the Akhaltskha church. The flags of Armenia, Georgia and the ARS were carried into the hall – accompanied by the Hymns – in the presence of officials representing the Samtskhe-Javakheti governor, the City Hall of Akhaltskha, principals of schools, ARS members from various regions as well as reporters.
ARS of Georgia Chairperson, Karine Tadevosian greeted guests and the audience expressing good wishes for a prosperous New Year and a merry Christmas. She started her address by congratulating everyone for the ARS Centennial then gave a concise accounting of the 100-year accomplishments of the organization and its future plans.
The Chairperson also expressed her best wishes upon the fourth anniversary of the Akhaltskha Armenian Youth Center and honored two veteran members of ARS-Georgia, Ophelia Keyan of Akhaltsekha and Emma Antonian of Ninotzminda, with citations of meritorious service.
The Akhaltskha Armenian Youth Center “Gohanamq” song and dance ensemble entertained the festive and appreciative audience, meriting its enthusiastic applause. Between performances, the masters of ceremonies described the meaningful and constructive work of the ARS in Javakhk, as well as abroad. Until the start of the concert, an exhibit of the handywork of the Youth Center’s “Expert Hands” youth group was organized in the reception hall of the Akhaltsekha Cultural Center.
The Youth Center director, Veronica Hambarian gave a brief report on the creation of the Center and the groups of youngsters actively involved in its programs. She concluded by thanking ARS-Georgia for organizing and promoting the event.
Well acquainted with and appreciative of ARS activities and its close cooperation with the Armenian Apostolic Church, The Rev. Father Manouk, representing the Georgian-Armenian Diocese, congratulated the ARS members on the Centenary and the continuous efforts towards perpetuating Armenian identity in the region. Members of the audience had words of appreciation for the accomplishments of the Center and its director and instructors as well.
