Western Diocese

On the evening of Monday, February 12^th thirty clergymen of the Western Diocese assembled at St. John Armenian Church, San Diego for a 3-day conference. The conference was presided by Abp. Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese. This event coincided with the celebration of the Feast Day of the Sts. Ghevontiantz Priests, and Vartanantz was observed as well. Additionally celebrated was the 40^th Anniversary of the ordination of the former Primate Abp. Vatche Hovsepian to the office of Bishop.

On the morning of February 13^th, the clergymen gathered for a conference to discuss important issues facing the Western Diocese and its parishes. The day began by observing the Morning Hour service in the Sanctuary of St. John Garabed Armenian Church. Thereafter the 30 clergymen met and discussed issues ranging from Mission Parishes to the strengthening of Youth programs. Following the meeting, Divine Liturgy was celebrated by His Eminence Abp. Vatche Hovsepian with the full participation of the Clergy in attendance. The community also rejoiced as Girard Chadergian was ordained as Sub-deacon.

Following Divine Liturgy, a reception was held in the St. John Garabed Hall where Abp. Hovsepian was honored for his years of faithful service as a Bishop of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

“Diocesan Clergy Conferences certainly are important forums to sharpen the focus of the mission of the Church. Conferences help us to evaluate the scope of our commitment to better understand the needs of the community and be firmly strengthend with the love of God as members of the Diocese Clergy family continue their God entrusted mission: To serve and love with the vision of our Church fathers,” said Abp. Hovnan Derderian regarding the Clergy Conference.

The Western Diocese will continue to observe the Feast of Vartanantz on Thursday, February 15 at 6:30pm at the Headquarters of the Western Diocese located at 2214 Glenoaks Blvd., Burbank, CA. For additional information please call (818) 558-7474.