Western Diocese

On Sunday, May 20th, the Primate presided of the celebration of St. Vartan Oakland’s 50th Anniversary of consecration. His Eminence celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon. During the liturgy he presented 4 members of the St. Vartan Parish with the encyclical of His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of All Armenians as well as the Medal of St. Nersses the Graceful. Those individuals were Mr. Antranig Nalbandian, Mrs. Beverly Nalbandian, Mr. Michael Madajian, and Mrs. Virginia Madajian. He thanked them for their years of dedicated service, and devotion to the Armenian Church. He also presented the Hye Spirit Award to the following individuals: Mr. & Mrs. Charles and Doris Kezerian, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph and Ann Keshishian, Mrs. Sylva Gozurian, and Mrs. Virginia Ratcliff. He then commended Fr. Mesrob Sarafian for his excellent service and leadership as Parish Priest of St. Vartan Oakland, and presented to him a handcross in appreciation of his diligent pastoral services..

Regarding the event His Eminence said, “A celebration of 50 years is a significant milestone. 50 years signify 50 years of prayer, 50 years of commitment and achievements, 50 years of spiritual enrichment. This celebration challenges us with the legacy to hold firm our Christian tradition and serve our Lord and our sacred Church.” Following the Divine Liturgy a reception was held at Jack London Square.