Last weekend, we consecrated the Armenian Church of the Holy Archangels, Sts. Gabriel and Michael, in Haverhill, Massachusetts. This church began as a vision that started with the faithful members of two historic parishes: Holy Cross Church of Lawrence and St. Gregory the Illuminator Church of Haverhill. They came together in 2002 and created the first merged Armenian Church in North America.
The story of two joining together in the service of God—was certainly in my prayers as I asked God for inspiration in choosing a name for this new church. And the answer I received was to consecrate the church in the name of the Holy Archangels, Saints Michael and Gabriel—two heavenly messengers, each bearing a special message of God’s power and compassion.
When I pronounced the name of the church for the first time during the consecration service, I became emotional. In the video, you can hear my voice tremble with awe, for these archangels remind us of the very essence of our God.
St. Michael’s name means, “Who is like our God?” It’s a rhetorical question. There is no one like Him! There is no one who can compare! No power on earth, no situation in life can measure up to the greatness and love of our God. St. Michael, the warrior angel, reminds us that God stands with us in every battle, that He goes before us and behind us, surrounding us with His protection. When we’re overwhelmed or uncertain, Michael is a reminder that God fights for us.
And then there’s Gabriel. His name means, “God is my strength.” Gabriel is the messenger of good news, the angel who brought Mary the life-changing announcement that she would give birth to the Savior of the world. When we feel weak or weary, Gabriel's name reminds us that God’s strength is present in our lives to lift us up, to empower us, to carry us through any trial.
So, as we honor these holy archangels, let’s carry their message with us. Let’s face every challenge with courage, knowing that we’re not alone, that we’re empowered by the very strength of heaven.
Commentaires