Mayor Yuri Luzhkov addressed the congregation to congratulate the Moscow ethnic Armenian community, soon to receive a majestic house of prayer. He pointed out close links of the Russian and Armenian nations throughout many centuries, and highlighted an honorable Armenian contribution to Russian culture, research and industry.
The mayor thanked Alexis II, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church, for his stances on other Christian denominations, which promote Christian unity.
Alexis II and Garegin II, Catholicos of All Armenians, laid a commemorative capsule in the cathedral foundation.
Mutual understanding and friendly partnership are characteristic of present-day Russian-Armenian relations. The Russian and Armenian Churches are exchanging their ample experience and precious spiritual heritage, said Garegin II.
"Friendly ties between our Churches and flocks will strengthen here," added Alexis II.
The cathedral will be essential part of an upcoming Armenian Cultural Center. It will have a residence of the Patriarchal Exarch of the Armenian Apostolic Church in Moscow, an educational center plus Sunday school, a library, a conference hall, and a club-total floor space 22,000 square meters.
