Dear fellow Canadian Armenians,
On September 21, we celebrate Armenia’s 29th independence anniversary. We are thrilled about and proud of our fatherland. Armenia is the pride and joy of Armenians around the globe, and its independence is the answer to many prayers and dreams.
On this momentous occasion, I congratulate all Armenians on behalf of the board as well as volunteers and members of the Armenian Missionary Association of Canada. I also invite fellow Armenians to reflect on the independence journey.
A nation that declares its independence and establishes sovereignty over its territory has achieved de jure independence. De facto independence is achieved gradually as the newly established country grows stronger both economically and militarily, gradually emerging out of the influence of stronger nations and its dependence on them.
This is similar to a growing child. An infant is fully dependent on his parents both de jure and de facto. When a child grows up and turns 18, she becomes de jure independent of her parents. Yet, de facto independence is earned gradually, as the child gains economic independence and, equally important, as through wisdom and maturity she earns the admiration and respect of her parents, close family, and friends.
The Armenian republic is now 29 years old. This is a very short period in historic terms. Yet, during this brief period, our nation has come a long way, for which we thank God.
At the same time, we acknowledge the long path towards maturity, the responsibility of which lies with each and every Armenian around the globe.
Our fatherland will conquer new peaks when individual Armenians worldwide, driven by Christian values of love, integrity and justice, take responsibility, bring down walls of division, and selflessly lift each other up and help fellow Armenians reach their full potential. A worldwide Armenian population whose hearts and minds are well educated can put Armenia on an upward trajectory towards a just, prosperous, militarily powerful and politically influential Armenia and thus, de facto independence.
The Armenian Missionary Association of Canada is committed to and continues to contribute to the development of Armenia and Artsakh, especially in the field of education.
Harout Nercessian
AMAC Board Member
