The visit began on Saturday, November 22, with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, held at a Catholic church in Valencia. The service was celebrated by Father Ghevond Saghatelyan, with Archbishop Barsamian presiding and delivering the sermon. In his homily, Archbishop Barsamian expressed his heartfelt joy at being with the Armenian community in Valencia, praying together as they entered the Advent season.

After the liturgy, Archbishop Barsamian chaired the first meeting of the newly appointed parish council, discussing strategies to strengthen the spiritual, educational, and community life of the parish.

On Sunday, November 23, Archbishop Barsamian and Father Ghevond traveled to Cullera, where they joined local Armenians for the blessing of a newly placed khachkar (Armenian cross-stone) in one of the city’s parks. Mr. Jordi Mayor, the Mayor of Cullera, Mrs. Hermine Mesrobyan, the President of the Armenian Community in Cullera, and Father Aram Hunanyan from the Diocese of Southern Russia of the Armenian Church, donor of the khachkar, all attended the ceremony.

At the conclusion of the blessing, Archbishop Barsamian highlighted the importance of this day not just for Armenians in Cullera but for the global Armenian community. He said, “This khachkar is a reminder for you, for your children, and for future generations of Armenians living in this city of your Armenian identity, based on Christian faith and a very rich cultural tradition of the Armenian people.”

The festive celebration included musical performances and Armenian dances. The Mayor addressed the attendees, expressing continued support for the Armenian community. After the outdoor festivities, clergy, city officials, and community members gathered at an Armenian-owned restaurant to continue the celebration together.