On February 6, 2025, His Excellency Archbishop Gevorg Noradounguian visited the Hospital of Our Lady of Narek in Ashotsk at the invitation of the Director of the Hospital Fr. Mario Cuccarollo. His Excellency was accompanied by Fr. Nerses Galstyan, Father Hovhannes Melikyan  and Fr. Hovsep Galstyan. The hospital staff welcomed the clergy with great joy. First, a blessing ceremony was conducted for the entire hospital complex. Following this, His Excellency addressed the staff with a welcoming speech in the chapel, expressing his gratitude towards Father Cuccarollo and Deputy Director Hasmik Hambaryan for extending such an honorable invitation.

He said: “Despite all the difficulties, the community has maintained its faith. Miracles do happen. As Armenians, Christians, and faithful, we understand profoundly that where technology and science collapse, sometimes it is a simple prayer that succeeds. Be aware that within this hospital, in this modest corner where you serve, starting and concluding your day with the “Our Father” strengthens you with a special power, which sometimes surpasses all that technology.  Sometimes, the power of a nurse’s smile surpasses the impact of any drug, injection, or sophisticated medical equipment. A single glance or a silent and mute smile directed toward someone unable to laugh or speak can have a profound impact. The eyes are adept at interpreting a smile, which carries significant influence. I wish you success in your noble mission. You are here with two important missions: your long-term medical and technical experience, and your faith.

His Excellency and the hospital’s medical staff also had a warm and cordial conversation in the administration room. The Archbishop shared his memories of the early 1990s, when as a seminarian he was present at the foundation of the hospital, and said that this rapidly constructed, short-term hospital is still effectively serving the local community. Father Mario also expressed his gratitude to the staff, especially Sister Noëlle Locatelli, a tireless French nun who dedicated part of her life to the hospital. He noted that the hospital had faced numerous challenges, correcting various mistakes and shortcomings to more effectively align its operations with the spiritual and healthcare mission established by Pope St. John Paul II 33 years ago. The visit concluded with the blessing of new ambulances and drivers.

Translated by Ulyana Kostanyan