A Journey to Rome

The French organization Fratello launched an initiative ahead of the Christmas holidays, according to which figures characteristic of the Nativity scene were to be created by people from all over the world. As a result, an international Nativity scene was to be created and symbolically presented to the Pope.

The aim of the initiative was to prepare a surprise for the Pope on behalf of people around the world, as a sign of brotherhood among people and recognition of the important role of those in need within the Church. Another objective was to showcase the diversity and universality of the Church through the various figures of the international Nativity scene.

We learned about the initiative through Jeanne and Sophie, volunteers with the Œuvre d’Orient organization. Armenia was assigned the figure of Saint Joseph, which was lovingly crafted by Razmik Hovsepyan, a former student of the “Yntaniq” Center, and Arkadi Arshakyan, third-year students specializing in “Painting and Sculpture – Wood Carving and Artistic Wooden Objects” at Gyumri State Vocational School No. 4, under the guidance of master Stepan Mkrtchyan. The students carried out their work with dedication and faith, giving the figure a lifelike spirit and the kindness characteristic of Saint Joseph.

The carved figure was lovingly transported to Paris by a representative of Œuvre d’Orient, from where it will continue its journey to Rome to become part of the Nativity scene through which Christians around the world will celebrate the principal Christian feast—Christmas.

We are delighted that Armenia did not remain outside this initiative and, through Gyumri State Vocational School No. 4 and the “Yntaniq” Center, was able to contribute to completing the magnificent Nativity scene ahead of the holidays.

May the radiant image of the Christ Child fill with immeasurable joy and hope the souls of all those who lovingly and reverently carry this sacred image in their hearts…