Bishop Hovakim Speaks on Spiritual “Thirst” During Divine Liturgy

The Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church in the United Kingdom and Ireland, Bishop Hovakim Manukyan, has delivered a sermon reflecting on spiritual longing and faith during a Divine Liturgy at St Sarkis Armenian Church in London.

Preaching on a passage from the Gospel of John (7:37–38), Bishop Manukyan focused on the biblical theme of “living water”, which in Christian theology is understood as a symbol of the life of the Holy Spirit. Addressing the congregation, he spoke about the idea of spiritual thirst as a universal human experience, linking it to the search for meaning, peace, justice and hope.

Drawing on biblical and early Christian sources, including the writings of St Augustine and St John Chrysostom, the Bishop described the Church as a place of healing and spiritual renewal rather than a community of the already perfect. He emphasised that, in Christian teaching, faith should lead to acts of compassion, service and care for others.

During the sermon, Bishop Manukyan also referred to recent cultural and community events within the diocese, including a sacred and classical music concert, describing artistic expression and charitable giving as ways in which individuals can support and strengthen community life.

The service formed part of the regular worship life of St Sarkis Church, which serves Armenian Christians and the wider community in London.

The Divine Liturgy concluded with prayers for peace and for those facing hardship, with Bishop Manukyan encouraging worshippers to carry the values of faith, service and hope into their daily lives.

→ Click here to read the full sermon in English and Armenian.