MVP

Tag: leadership

  • Aram i — Aram I Embarks on Significant Diocesan Visit to Cyprus

    Aram i — Aram I Embarks on Significant Diocesan Visit to Cyprus

    Aram I, the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church of Cilicia, is currently on his sixth diocesan visit to Cyprus, a four-day journey that coincides with the 30th anniversary of his enthronement. This visit comes at a critical time for Armenia, which is facing political and security challenges amid a landscape of hostile nations.

    Photo: financialmirror.com

    • As this significant visit unfolds, the Armenian community in Cyprus looks forward to His Holiness Aram I's messages of hope and unity, which resonate deeply in these challenging times.

    During his time in Cyprus, Aram I aims to promote messages of world peace and unity within the Armenian community. Having previously travelled to Armenian communities across Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas, he emphasises the importance of reorganising the Armenian Diaspora. “The reorganisation of the Armenian Diaspora and the preparation of the manpower should become the priority of our Holy See of Cilicia,” he stated, highlighting the need to revive Armenian schools that have been declining in recent years.

    This visit marks a significant milestone, being the sixth time His Holiness has travelled to Cyprus, one of the oldest dioceses in the Armenian Orthodox Church, which has roots dating back to the tenth century. The Catholicos has a long-standing connection to the region, particularly after the Armenian Genocide led to the relocation of the Catholicossate from the historical city of Sis in Cilicia to Lebanon in 1930. His regular attendance at inter-faith meetings in Cyprus underscores the ongoing dialogue and collaboration he fosters within the region.

    Accompanied by a five-member delegation, Aram I plans to meet with parishioners across various towns. His itinerary includes visits to the churches of Sourp Stepanos (Saint Stephen) in Larnaca and Sourp Kevork (Saint George) in Limassol. Additionally, he will be the guest of honour at a community banquet in Nicosia on Saturday evening, where he will continue to engage with the local Armenian community.

    On Sunday morning, the Catholicos will officiate a divine liturgy at the Sourp Asdvadzadzin church in Nicosia, followed by delivering his patriarchal sermon. Following this, he is expected to visit the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia, where he will discuss pertinent matters concerning the Armenian Church and its diaspora.

    On Monday, Aram I will meet with prominent figures including President Nikos Christodoulides and Archbishop George III, head of the autocephalus Greek Orthodox Church of Cyprus. This meeting is crucial in fostering relationships and discussing shared concerns between the Armenian community and the Cypriot leadership.

    An important stop on his agenda will be the Nareg Armenian school in Nicosia, where he plans to address primary pupils and gymnasium students, thus reinforcing the importance of education and cultural preservation among the younger generation.

    As this significant visit unfolds, the Armenian community in Cyprus looks forward to His Holiness Aram I’s messages of hope and unity, which resonate deeply in these challenging times.

  • Andreas Apostolou Leaves EDEK Amid Leadership Dispute

    Andreas Apostolou Leaves EDEK Amid Leadership Dispute

    andreas apostolou — Andreas Apostolou, a Member of Parliament for EDEK, has announced his departure from the party, citing a decision that leaves him unable to pursue leadership roles. In a heartfelt post, Apostolou expressed his disappointment regarding the party’s recent actions, which he claims were made without prior discussion.

    In his statement, Apostolou revealed that he received a letter informing him of the party’s stance on May 3, 2025. This letter indicated that, as an associate member from the Citizens’ Alliance, he would not be eligible to run for leadership positions. He emphasised that this decision effectively excludes him from active participation in EDEK’s policy-making.

    Apostolou, who has served four years in parliament, described the move as unfair and expressed his feelings of being sidelined. “I did not expect it, and I believe I do not deserve it,” he said, asserting that he only sought a fair opportunity to contest for a leadership role.

    He chose to withhold the contents of the letter initially, hoping for a reversal of the decision before the election of new party leadership. However, he stated that his patience had run out as the new leadership did not address his concerns.

    Reflecting on his time with EDEK, Apostolou expressed gratitude for the support he received from fellow members and the public. He noted that he received significant preference votes in past elections, which he believes demonstrate his commitment to the party and his constituents. “EDEK elected an MP in the Larnaca District after 50 years. I contributed to keeping EDEK alive in the 2024 European elections,” he remarked, highlighting his electoral success.

    As he formally steps away, Apostolou plans to inform the President of the House of Representatives about his situation. He reiterated his dedication to the constituents of Larnaca, vowing to continue advocating for their needs, particularly in areas like health, education, and social welfare.

    Despite the fallout with EDEK, Apostolou remains optimistic about his future political path. He expressed confidence in the achievements of his parliamentary work and called for unity among supporters. “We continue our struggle even more strongly. For our Larnaca, our district, and our people,” he affirmed, encouraging his followers to stay engaged and work towards a better future.