Western Diocese of the Armenian Church

On Sunday, May 20, 2012, St. John Garabed Armenian Church in San Diego celebrated the 35th anniversary of establishment of the parish. On the auspicious occasion, Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian paid a pastoral visit to St. John Garabed. The Primate celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon. At the holy altar, His Eminence was assisted by newly-ordained priest Rev. Fr. Mesrob Ash.

His Eminence Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian also participated in the service. Karse and Kail Klijian, and Ethan Ibarra were granted the Four Minor Orders of Acolyte. Levon Parsegov was ordained as a sub-deacon while Yerevan Ohanessian was ordained into the Diaconate during the service. The Primate offered them his pastoral love and guidance and encouraged them to serve Christ, our Lord and the Armenian Holy Apostolic Church with grace and humility.

Banquet

A celebratory banquet was held at the Khosharian Hall of the Parish. A special 35^th anniversary booklet highlighting the history of St. John Garabed was printed for the memorable occasion.  The artistic program opened with music by Suren Chamlian. Sunday School and Armenian School Students offered prayers and recitations. 

For their invaluable contributions to the livelihood of St. John Garabed, Scott Nalian and Kathy Dadourian were recognized and honored as 2012 Parishioners of the Year. At the request of Archpriest Fr. Datev Tatoulian, Pastor of St. John Garabed, Mr. and Mrs Steven and Lisa Kradjian and Mr. and Mrs. Berge and Terry Minasian were presented with the Diocesan Hye Spirit medal.

Vivian Hagopian, St. John Sunday School Superintendent received a letter of acknowledgement from the Christian Education Council for her love and dedication. The letter was read aloud by Archpriest Fr. Datev Tatoulian.

In his remaks, Fr. Datev expressed his sincere gratitude to the Primate for the love and care he has demonstrated to St. John Garabed throughout the years. He congratulated the honorees and the ordained offering them his Christian love and support.

Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian congratulated Fr. Datev and the parishioners on the momentous occasion. He motivated the parishioners of St. John Garabed to serve with renewed commitment and reawakened spirits.

The closing remarks were delivered by Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian.