On July 22, 2026, in the village of Dzitankov in the Shirak Province, the ceremony of blessing and consecration of a 12-meter statue dedicated to the Lord Jesus Christ was performed by His Excellency Archbishop Kevork Noradounguian, assisted by the local pastor, Fr. Mikael Domburyan. The magnificent statue is installed in the courtyard of the village’s Holy Cross Church, thanks to the benevolence of Aragats Papoyan, a native of Dzitankov, currently residing in Russia, and the installation organized by Vaghinak Petrosyan.

With the support of the same benefactor, the electrical supply system of Holy Cross Church was renovated, the church entrance and courtyard were improved, and new lighting system was installed. Furthermore, the interior decoration of the church and the installation of new metallic doors were sponsored by Albert Piloyan, also a resident of the village, who was likewise present at the consecration ceremony.

The Archbishop and the local parish priest expressed their profound gratitude to the benefactors for the extensive work accomplished, invoking God’s blessings upon their families. His Excellency invited the village residents present at this beautiful ceremony to actively participate in the preservation of the church, following the example of these benefactors and other people of good will who sponsor the construction and renovation of Armenian Catholic churches. The restauration works of the Dzitankov church will continue through the sponsorship of the same benefactors.

Following the consecration ceremony, the Archbishop, together with the pastor, attended a festive banquet and concert program organized by the local residents to celebrate the dedication of the new statue.

Fr. Hovsep Galstyan

Chancery of the Ordinariate of Armenian Catholics

July 23, 2026