On the 28^th of May the whole Armenian nation celebrates the proclamation of the First Republic of Armenia. The commemoration ceremony is served both in Armenia and in the communities of the Armenian Diaspora.

Spiritual father of Surb Prkich Church in Batumi, Priest Ararat Gumbalyan after conducting the Evening Divine Service offered a Prayer of Thanks dedicated to the proclamation of the First Republic of Armenia. Mr.

Armen Grigoryan, First Secretary of Consulate General of Armenia in Batumi, attended the ceremony. Priest Ararat Gumbalyan in his sermon stressed the importance and value of freedom and independence for the Armenian people.

On 28 May, 2013 the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church also celebrated Commemoration Day of St. Gayne (note that one day ago Commemoration Day of St. Hripsime was celebrated). At the call of Priest Ararat Gumbalyan young girls and women named after Holy Virgins attended the service. During the Divine Service spiritual father carried out blessing, asked the Holy Virgins for intercession, and encouraged the audience to follow the example of the saints in their devotional and humble service to the Lord.