Translation of a letter (see opposite page) written in 1842 by the
District Catholicos at city of Sis to Kevork Filian (father of the
author) in Antioch:
+------------+
| Red Seal |
| of |
| Catholicos.|
+------------| +--------------+
| Symbol in |
+--------------+ | colors |
| Symbol in | | representing |
| colors | | an Altar. |
| representing | +--------------+
| the name | Michael Catholicos, The servant of Jesus Christ
| Jesus Christ.| by the grace of our Lord, the supreme father of
+--------------+ all Armenians who live in Great Seleucia. I the
servant of St. Gregory's right hand and most Holy
throne of the Holy Mother Church. Greetings of love and blessings
upon my spiritual son Kevork Filian esteemed and honored and to all
who belong to his family, perpetual happiness through Jesus Christ.
Honorable Gentleman. You will be informed through my letter of
spiritual greetings and blessings that truly and earnestly, more than
a father, I am willing to bestow upon you my blessings and praises,
and in order to show my respect practically, I feel it my duty to
thank you for your hospitality, when I came to your blessed home,
as a spiritual father, where I was entertained and received proper
honors. The Lord bless your valuable soul and keep you prosperous and
happy through the mediation of Jesus and St. Gregory. The Lord give
you and to all those who belong to you, power and ability in doing
good. For a long time I have desired to send to you this letter of
blessing; but I have not been able. Now I am glad to send to you one
of my spiritual sons Rev. Sarkis Vartabed (a preacher). When he comes
he will see your good deeds and enjoy your hospitality. May 4. 1842.