“Social Distancing? I Would Say It Is Physical Distancing.”

On Friday night, April 3, during a Zoom call meeting with an ACYO Central Council members and close to thirty ACYO participants, Fr. Sarkis Petoyan, the pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church of Pasadena, joined the meeting with his daughter Grace and made an interesting comment. “I don’t agree with the term social distancing. I would rather say it is physical distancing.” I immediately caught the moment and decided to share the same statement with my reader.

Certainly, we should all agree with Fr. Sarkis and continue our dialogue through various lines of communication. Our fight has to show the strong resilience and commitment. We all can and should fight this “invisible enemy.” Faith is the ultimate spiritual tool. In addition, we need to exercise the gift of wisdom graced on us by God.

Now going back to the Zoom meeting, I have to say very sincerely that it was such a joy to be with the youth. Their spiritual energy and willingness to be active in the life of the church is most commendable. During the meeting, amongst many other issues, the most important item of discussion was the establishment of virtual classes for the youth. This alone shows their bond to the Church and their eagerness to live the Christian Faith.

God, bless our youth and empower them constantly with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Give them all your protection and lead their steps to the sanctity of a God-pleasing life.

Archbishop Hovnan Derderian

Diocesan Primate

April 6, 2020