Western Diocese

On Sunday, September, 16, at 6:00pm, the 80^th Anniversary of the Western Diocese was celebrated with about 1400 people in attendance. The Primate presided over this important event, with the faithful people and special guests in attendance. The combined choir gathered from the Los Angeles area churches, under the direction of Gomidas Keshishian, performed hymns from the Armenian Church. The Zvartnots and the Vartan and Siranoush Dance Ensembles performed several interpretive dances.

A video presentation about the establishment of the Western Diocese in the U.S., in 1898, by the venerable Catholicos Mgrditch Khrimian Hayrig was shown during the event. In 1927 the Western Diocese was established by the venerable Kevork V, Catholicos of All Armenians. In 1957, the diocesan headquarters were moved from Fresno to Los Angeles. The video included a brief history of the activities of the Primates, the establishment of the new parishes, the purchase of the Diocesan Camp, and preparation of the clergy. It also reflected on the services of the former primate Abp. Vatche Hovsepian. A special section was devoted to activities of the current primate His Eminence Abp. Hovnan Derderian emphasizing the progress of the construction of the Cathedral, establishment of new parishes, new clergy issues, publications, Mother Church periodical, bookstore, computer lab, TV programs, and other future projects.

Upon the conclusion of the program, Dr. Harout Yaghsezian, Chairmen of the Cultural Committee for the 80^th Anniversary expressed his gratitude to the Primate for his leadership. Dr. Yaghsezian’s remarks were followed by the “Sioni” Hymn sang by which Fr. Arshag Khatchadorian. Then the Primate gave his inspiring message.