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His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of all Armenians, has issued a congratulatory message on Knowledge Day celebrated on September 1. Below is his full message published by the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

"From the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin we extend Our Pontifical blessings on the occasion of Knowledge Day, congratulating all the teachers, students and schoolchildren of educational institutions.

For centuries, the development of education, science and culture have been a priority in the Armenian national-ecclesiastical life. Even in the difficult times of our nation's history, Armenian schools and their tireless workers educated and brought up worthy children of the nation, motherland and the Church, strengthened their love towards God, patriotism and national self-awareness.

Today, along with facing the most serious issues facing our state and nation, the mission of creating a religious, patriotic, knowledgeable and enlightened generation is paramount, because, as the famous historian testifies, "all evils enter the human mind from ignorance."

We pray that the Almighty Lord will bless all the devotees who bring their service in the field of education with undiminished energy and grace and enlighten the minds of our children, pupils and students, to accumulate knowledge with zeal and serve it for the progress of our country and building a prosperous and bright future of our people.

May this new academic year, with the Lord's blessing, be beautified with good results for the strengthening of our homeland and our people."