YEREVAN (Noyan Tapan)–The pilgrimage to Gandzasar and back to Etchmiadzin ended recently as pilgrims headed for Khor Virap and were received by abbot Mkhitar and the brethren. That night the group of pilgrims took part in the service and later attended festivals of folk art organized by the "Akunk" ensemble.
Archbishop Mesrop Ashjian–who is in charge of preparations for the 1700th anniversary celebrations of Armenia’s acceptance of Christianity–addressed words of blessing and cheers to the pilgrims. Late in the night the group arrived in Zvartnots where it participated in the matins at dawn.
Then Arch. Ashjian led the group to the Zvartnots Temple in Etchmiadzin–which became the last section of the pilgrimage. At the entrance of the Etchmiadzin Cathedral the pilgrims were greeted by the Mother See congregation