Commemorative Events to Mark 100th Anniversary of Armenian Genocide Discussed at the Armenian Consulate
On August 2, 2012, His Excellency Grigor Hovhannissian, Consul General of the Republic of Armenia hosted an evening of discussion at the Armenian Consulate (House of Armenia) in Glendale where commemorative events leading up to the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide were planned and discussed. Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian was among the dignitaries in attendance.
On the Diocesan level, plans for the upcoming 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide were unveiled at the Annual Assembly of the Western Diocese in May 2012.
Under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, the 100th Anniversary Commemorative committee has begun to orchestrate an intense and multidimensional agenda to bring attention and honor to the 1.5 Million Marytrs of the Genocide and to focus on the achievements of the post-Genocide resurrected people.
Archbishop Derderian sets the tone for the commemoration, "For Armenians, the 20th century commenced with a woeful path to Golgotha. However, our people emerged victorious as a result of their unshakable Christian faith, their firm belief in the restoration and the resurrection of our nation. Let us commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide with the vision ofour fallen ancestors. April 24 is no longer a day of mourning and sorrow. April 24th is a symbol of victory for our resurrected nation."
The Commemorative Committee is chaired by Fr. Vazken Movsesian known for his activism on issues of justice pertaining to the Genocide. In his preliminary presentation to the Diocesan Assembly, he outlined different facets of the commemoration which include pilgrimages, publications, educational programs, the construction of a Martyrs' Chapel to name only a few of the many different activities. "In compliance with our Primate's vision," said Fr. Vazken, "We are here to honor our past, recognize today and define the future. Our programs are intended to bear witness to the power of Resurrection as demonstrated by Jesus Christ, expressed by the Armenian Church and delivered to the Armenian Nation."
The official launch of the 100th Anniversary Commemoration will be on the Feast of the Holy Cross, September 16 throughout the Diocese with special announcements at each of the parishes. "Survival, Growth and Life" are the themes that will be highlighted at the services. We invite our faithful people to join in the beginning of the 100th Anniversary of Commemoration at their local parish on September 16, 2012, the Feast of the Elevation of the Holy Cross.
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