Western Diocese

November 2009 Archive

Primate’s Pastoral Visit to the Armenian Church of Seattle

On November 21-22, the Primate made a pastoral visit to the Armenian Church of Seattle.

Primate’s Schedule - December 2009

Wednesday, December 2 – Santa Barbara Thursday, December 3 – Palmdale Saturday, December 5 – Diocesan Christmas Ball at the Diocesan Complex

Western Diocese Welcomes His Excellency Araik Harutunyan, Prime Minister of Nagorno Karabagh Republic and His Delegation

On Monday, November 23, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, welcomed His Excellency Araik Harutunyan, Prime Minister of Nagorno Republic and His Delegation to the Western Diocese.

Primate Will Preside over Edward Halvajian Memorial Service

Edward Dickran Halvajian passed away on November 22 after a long illness. He was an active and generous faithful of the Western Diocese. Mr. Halvajian was also an active supporter of the Armenian Church. He was the principal benefactor of the Armenian Church of the Desert. On Wednesday, December 2, the Primate will preside over the memorial service of Edward Halvajian.

Primate Presides Over Thanksgiving Celebration at Ararat Home – Mission Hills

On November 24, in observance of Thanksgiving Day, the Primate, joined by the Very Rev. Fr. Baret Dz. V. Yeretzian, Rev. Archpriest Frs. Arshag Khatchadourian, Hovsep Hagopian and Nareg Matarian attended Ararat Home in Mission Hills. The clergymen had prepared a special program for the elderly where they read the Gospels and sang hymns.

Primate Meets with La Verne Parish Bodies

On November 23, the Primate met with the Armenian Church of La Verne Parish Auxiliary Bodies. He became acquainted with their tasks and gave clear and helpful directions regarding the operation of the church. Dn. KareKin Setian is the Parish Council Chair.

Armenian Architecture Presentation Held at the Western Diocese

On November 23, a reception and presentation highlighting “Armenian Architecture Exhibition” was held at the Hampar Room of the Diocesan Complex. The event was held under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, and the support of His Excellency Grigor Hovhannissian, Consul General of the Republic of Armenia in Los Angeles.

Primate Attends Thanksgiving Reception at Woodbury University

We are pleased to inform the faithful that the Western Diocese maintains close ties with Woodbury University.

His Eminence Archbishop Pargev Martirosian, Primate of the Diocese of Artsakh Celebrates Divine Liturgy at St. Peter – Van Nuys

Upon the invitation of the Primate, His Eminence Archbishop Pargev Martirosian celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at St. Peter Armenian Church in Van Nuys on Sunday, November 22.

Lebanon Independence Celebration – Raffi Kendirjian Represents Primate

This year marks the 66th year of Independence of the Republic of Lebanon. In commemoration of the independence, His Excellency Houssam Diab, Consul General of Lebanon organized a special reception on November 22 at Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles.

Armenia Fund Annual Gala

On Sunday, November 22, All-Armenia Fund held a reception and a formal banquet at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Hotel.

Very Rev. Fr. Baret Dz. V. Yeretzian Visits Ararat Home, Eagle Rock

The Very Rev. Fr. Baret Dz. V. Yeretzian makes weekly visits to Ararat Home in Eagle Rock where he meets with the elderly of the community.

Western Diocese Holds Reception Honoring John Chiang, California State Controller

On Wednesday, November 18, a reception was held at the Diocesan Complex honoring John Chiang, State Controller. Under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, the Government Relations and Protocol Committee of the Western Diocese sponsored the reception to afford leading members of the community the opportunity to hear first hand a report of the state’s financial condition. This event is one of a series of receptions organized by the Primate to improve communication, share dialogue, and develop an ongoing relationship with government officials.

Primate Visits Hovsepian School

On November 18, the Primate accompanied by Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian, Youth Director, and Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan, Parish Priest of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church of Pasadena visited Alfred and Marguerite Hovsepian School in Pasadena. They received warm welcome by Principal Shahe Mangrian and the school staff.

Primate Visits Sahag-Mesrob Armenian Christian School

On November 18, the Primate accompanied by Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian, Youth Director, and Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan, Parish Priest of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church of Pasadena visited Sahag-Mesrob Armenian Christian School. They were given a warm welcome by the director and the school staff.

Primate’s Pastoral Visit to the Armenian Church of Las Vegas

On November 17, the Primate made a pastoral visit to the Armenian Church of Las Vegas where he met with the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Serop Azarian and the Parish Council.

Armenia Submits Protocols to Constitutional Court: What’s Next?

Pres. Serzh Sargsyan quietly submitted the Armenia-Turkey Protocols to the Constitutional Court on November 19, without a public announcement.

Primate's Thanksgiving Message

Dearly beloved faithful of the Armenian Apostolic Church, With Thanksgiving Day approaching, we would like to take the time to evaluate the true essence of the holiday. We found it appropriate to quote from the “Proclamation of Thanksgiving” issued by President Abraham Lincoln on October 3, 1863. With the issuance of this letter, Thanksgiving Day was proclaimed as a national holiday in the United States of America.

ACYO IN TUCSON by Colette Arabyan

October 2009 ... In a couple of hours a group of kids will come from Phoenix to stay overnight. It's 6:30 and Sanahin is getting impatient, pacing up and down the corridors wondering why they're late. I myself, to be honest, am a little concerned. I'd never entertained a group of teenagers overnight. Two moms will also be joining them which is a big relief for me but still... What if they get bored? What had I gotten myself into when I had put out an open invitation to the ACYO youth to come to Tucson on Saturday, have a retreat at our house, be rested and ready for the next day's church Mass.

Primate Attends AGBU Manoogian – Demirjian School

On November 16, the Primate accompanied by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Shnork Demirjian, Parish Priest of St. Peter Armenian Church, visited AGBU Manoogian – Demirjian School in Canoga Park.

Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian Visits Western Diocese

On November 16, Rev. Dr. Paul Haidostian, President of Haigazian University of Lebanon attended the Diocesan Headquarters. Dr. Haidostian was joined by Dr. Garbis Der Yeghiaian. They held a warm discussion with the Primate and Joseph Kanimian Esq., Diocesan Council Chair.

First Central California Regional Council Meeting

In order to revitalize and strengthen the ties between the vast regions of the Diocese, the Primate appointed three regional councils for the state of California. Furthermore, the members of these councils will serve two-year terms.

The Primate Celebrates Divine Liturgy at St. Paul, Fresno

On Sunday, November 15, the Primate celebrated the Divine Liturgy at St. Paul Armenian Church in Fresno, California. Serving at the Holy Altar were the Deacons of the church. Current and former Parish Priests Rev. Archpriest Fr. Arshen Aivazian and Rev. Archpriest Fr. Shahe Altounian also participated in the church service.

Harvest Festival at the Western Diocese

On Saturday, November 14, 2009, under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, a special festive event, titled “Harvest Festival,” organized by the Burbank Parish was held in the Paul Brothers Galleria and the Nazareth and Sima Kalaydjian Hall of the Arshag and Eleanor Dickranian Diocesan Complex in Burbank, California.

10th Anniversary of Consecration and Enthronement of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians

On November 15, 2009, the Diocesan clergy of each respective Parish read the Primate’s message on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the Consecration and Enthronement of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians.

Celebration Honoring 75th Birthday of Shahen Khachatryan

On Friday, November 13, Tekeyan Cultural Association of Los Angeles organized a celebration honoring the 75th birthday of Shahen Khachatryan. The event took place at the Glendale Public Library.

Lucy Panoyan Art Exhibit

On November 12, 2009, the Tekeyan Cultural Association was the venue for the art exhibit of late artist Lucy Panoyan.

Serbian Orthodox Church Leader Enters Eternal Rest

Patriarch Pavle, the leader of the Serbian Orthodox Church, passed away on Sunday, November 15. He was 95 years old.

Armenian Church in Tbilisi, Georgia Collapses

On Thursday, November 19, St. Kevork of Mughni Church, an Armenian Church located in Tbilisi, Georgia, collapsed after years of disrepair. Built in 1356, St. Kevork of Mughni Church is one of five Armenian churches in Tbilisi that has not been placed under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of Georgia.

His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of Eastern Diocese Welcomes Karabagh Delegation

On Tuesday, November 17, a delegation from the Republic of Nagorno-Karabagh visited the Diocesan Center in New York, where they met with Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Eastern Diocese; Rev Fr. Mardiros Chevian, dean of St. Vartan Cathedral; Garnik Nanagoulian, executive director of the Fund for Armenian Relief; Oscar Tatosian, chair of the Diocesan Council; and Michael Haratunian, secretary of FAR’s Board of Directors.

Primate Calls on Faithful to participate in Armenia Fund Telethon

Armenia Fund has become a new blessing in the life of the contemporary Armenian people throughout the world as a unifying ground where they become one through charity and care for Armenia and Artsakh.

Turkish Officials Admit To Playing Games With Protocols

With each passing day, the games Turkish officials have been playing with the Protocols are becoming more obvious and ridiculous!

Armenian Culture Month Celebration at Alfred and Marguerite Hovsepian School

The month of October is also referred to as Armenian Cultural Month at the Alfred and Marguerite Hovsepian School in Pasadena. Throughout this special month, students from all levels celebrate by participating in uniquely designed programs and activities.

Rev. Archpriest Fr. Vartan Kasparian Represents the Diocese at the General Assembly of the National Council of Churches

The 2009 General Assembly of the National Council of Churches was hosted in Minneapolis, Minnesota from November 10 thru 12 at the Double Tree Hotel. The Western Diocese was represented by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Vartan Kasparian. The main activities began on Tuesday, November 10 with the registration and seating of delegates from some 35 different churches. Our first order of business was a brief worship service done in the Methodist tradition. This was followed by a presentation by Rev. Dr. Margaret Aymer, Professor of New Testament at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta Georgia.

Tribute to Emil Kazaz

On Saturday, November 7, the AGBU Los Angeles Chapter organized an evening dedicated to the talented artist Emil Kazaz at the Alex Manoogian Center in Pasadena.

Primate of Artsakh Celebrates the Divine Liturgy at St. Peter, Van Nuys

On Sunday, November 22, 2009, by the invitation of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese, His Eminence Archbishop Barkev Mardirossian, Primate of Artsakh, will celebrate the Divine Liturgy and deliver the sermon at St. Peter Armenian Church in Van Nuys, California. The morning church service will begin at 8:30 AM, followed by the celebration of the Divine Liturgy at 10:00 AM. A reception will be held following the church service.

Santa Clarita – New Home of St. Sarkis Armenian Church

We inform the Diocesan Parish Priests, Parish Councils, Ladies Societies, Diocesan Delegates, auxiliary bodies and the entire faithful that after the church property was sold, St. Sarkis Armenian Church of Los Angeles temporarily found a temporary in North Hollywood. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated every Sunday at 1:00 PM at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church of North Hollywood.

Primate Calls on Faithful to Participate in Armenia Fund Telethon

It is our sincere wish that our beloved faithful in the Western Diocese along with our brothers and sisters throughout the world would generously give to Armenia Fund and bring their cheerful participation to the telethon on the joyous Day of Thanksgiving. Let us become the Good Hand of the Almighty God in helping Armenia and Artsakh, by making it possible for our brothers and sisters living there to continue to thrive and glow in peace and prosperity. Our donations to Armenia Fund, therefore, will reflect the Love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the faith of our forefathers.

Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Daniel Findikyan visits California

Upon the invitation of the USC Institute of Armenian Studies, the Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Daniel Findikyan gave an informative and inspiring lecture entitled “Gomidas Vartabed, Armenian Sacred Music and Implications for our Planet.”

Book Presentation by Natella Lalabekyan

On Sunday November 8, author Natella Lalabekyan held her third book presentation entitled “Pazmaget” Poems at the Glendale Public Library. The book was dedicated to the memory of Rima Kazakova.

Primate Attends Sayat Nova Dance Ensemble Concert in Glendale

On November 8, the Primate accompanied by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Hovsep Hagopian and Dn. Vardan Zargaryan attended the Sayat Nova Dance Company Ensemble Concert titled “Power in Rhythm” at Glendale High School.

St. John Armenian Church of San Francisco Dn. Berj Torosian Passed Away

On October 13, 2009 St. John Armenian Church of San Francisco Dn. Berj Torosian passed away. St. John Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Diran Avagian and St. Andrew Armenian Church of Santa Clara Valley Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Datev Harutyunian jointly held the Church Service.

Newly Ordained Rev. Fr. Krikor Zakaryan Celebrates First Divine Liturgy

On November 8, Rev. Fr. Krikor Zakaryan celebrated his first Divine Liturgy at the Armenian Church of the Desert in Rancho Mirage. The Very Rev. Fr. Baret Dz. V. Yeretzian represented the Primate on the occasion and extended the Primate’s blessings to Rev. Fr. Krikor Zakaryan and the faithful.

Primate Celebrates the Divine Liturgy and Ordains Deacons at St. Gregory Armenian Church in Fowler

On November 8, 2009, the Primate joined by Diocesan Youth Director Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian and Priesthood-Candidate Dn. Vardan Zargaryan attended St. Gregory Armenian Church in Fowler. The Primate celebrated the Divine Liturgy, assisted by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Yeghia Hairabedian, Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian, Dn. Vardan Zargaryan and Parish deacons.

Primate Presides Over La Canada and Crescenta Valley Annual Dinner Dance

On Saturday, November 7, under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, and in cooperation with the Parish Council, the Ladies Society of La Canada and Crescenta Valley Armenian Church organized the fifth annual dinner dance.

CYMA “Pilgrimage to Armenia” Participants Reunite

On Saturday, November 7, the CYMA “Pilgrimage to Armenia” participants reunited at the residence of CYMA director Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian. After delivering his welcoming message, Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian prayed for a greater number of CYMA participants who can successfully carry out the mission of the organization.

Armenian and Assyrian Youth Convene at St. Gregory in Pasadena

We are pleased to announce that on November 7, 2009, Armenian and Assyrian youth gathered at the St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church in Pasadena. The event was directed by Parish Priest Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan. The Parish Priest delivered his message and the youth interacted and shared their experiences in serving the Lord.

AACCWD General Assembly Convenes at St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church in Costa Mesa

On November 7, 2009 the Primate presided over the 7th Annual Association of Armenian Church Choirs of the Western Diocese (AACCWD) General Assembly at St. Mary Armenian Church in Costa Mesa. The Assembly consisted of representatives from eleven Parishes.

Former President of Artsakh Visits the Diocesan Headquarters

On November 6, 2009 former president of Artsakh Mr. Arkady Ghukasyan visited the Primate at the Diocesan Headquarters, in Burbank, California.

A Call to Mobilize the Diaspora, Delivered at ANC Banquet

At its annual banquet on November 8, the Armenian National Committee (Western U.S.), honored California Attorney General Jerry Brown, former governor and current gubernatorial candidate, with the Freedom Award; California State Senator Mark Wyland, and California State Assembly Assistant Majority Leader and candidate for L.A. City Council Paul Krekorian as Legislators of the Year; and Harut Sassounian, Publisher of the California Courier, with the Legacy Award. California State Assemblyman Anthony Protantino was master of ceremonies. More than 700 guests attended the event held at the Pasadena Convention Center.

Annual Collection of Donations for Humanitarian Causes

The Thanksgiving weekend and the Holy Christmas celebrations are ahead of us. In this joyous season, we encourage all the Diocesan Parishes to circulate donation plates for the humanitarian causes, during the celebration of the Divine Liturgy on Sunday November 15, 2009. This proposal was introduced by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Arshen Aivazian, Pastor of St. Paul Armenian Church in Fresno, during a Diocesan Clergy Conference, two years ago. It was approved by His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian and since then the Office of the Western Diocese has annually communicated this beautiful proposal to our respectful Parishes during these joyous days prior to the holidays every year.

Primate Calls on Faithful to participate in Armenia Fund Telethon 2009

It is our sincere wish that our beloved faithful throughout the Western Diocese along with our brothers and sisters from other parts of the world would cheerfully give to the Armenia Fund and participate in the telethon on the joyous Day of Thanksgiving, thus becoming the good hands of the Almighty God in the rebuilding of Armenia-Artsakh so that that this blessed land may thrive and glow in peace and prosperity as a testimony of the Love of God and the faith of our forefathers.

Primate’s Statement on Veterans Day 2009 and “A Historic Tribute to Veterans” at St. Peter, Van Nuys

The beautiful tradition of the annual Veterans Day event, held under the auspices of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, renders us a unique opportunity to celebrate the legacy of these brave men and women. This year’s event at St. Peter Armenian Church in Van Nuys, on Sunday, November 8, titled, “A Historic Tribute to Veterans,” was truly a reflection of our deep and unwavering support and respect for veterans. May God bless our veterans. May God bless the United States of America.

Pilgrimage to St. Mary Armenian Church in Costa Mesa

On October 22, under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, and guidance provided by the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Vicar General, the Ladies Society Central Council, under the leadership of Chair Araxie Boyamian, organized a pilgrimage to St. Mary Armenian Church in Costa Mesa. Ladies from the Ladies Societies of various Southern California Parishes joined the pilgrimage.

‘Bagels to Baklava’ Event in Santa Barbara

The Armenian Church of Santa Barbara once again co-sponsored the annual ‘Bagels to Baklava’ event, along with the St. Barbara’s Greek Orthodox Church, and a coalition of Hadassah Santa Barbara, the Temple B’nai B’rith and Jewish Federation of Santa Barbara on October 29, 2009.

Diocesan Publications

Most of us realize the responsibilities of the Western Diocese. We understand that the Diocese reaches the community faithful through religious and administrative programs. It is the duty of the Western Diocese to enrich the minds and souls of each faithful individual. The process involves conveying not only religious knowledge but historical, cultural and educational as well.

Diocesan Representative Assembly Convened in the Mother See

From October 31 to November 3, 2009, the third Diocesan Representative Assembly of the Armenian Church is being held in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians will preside over the meetings, with the participation of representatives from the Armenian Patriarchates of Jerusalem and Constantinople; Diocesan Primates from Armenia and the Diaspora; high ranking clergy; Members of the Supreme Spiritual Council and representatives of the laity.

Concert Dedicated to the 140th Birthday of Gomidas

Under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sipan Mekhsian Diocesan Chancellor and organizer Margarit Shahinian, a concert dedicated to the 140th birthday of Gomidas was held in the Nazareth and Sima Kalaydjian Hall of the Arshag and Elenaor Dickranian Diocesan Complex in Burbank, Calfornia. Rev. Archpriest Frs. Dr. Zaven Arzoumanian and Manoog Markarian were among the clergy attending the concert.

Opening Ceremony of St. Mary and St. Athanasius Coptic Orthodox Church

On November 1, His Grace Bishop Serapion, Primate of the Diocese of Los Angeles and Hawaii, presided over the opening ceremony of St. Mary and St. Athanasius Coptic Orthodox Church in Northridge, California.

Nairi Dance Studio Concert at Glendale High School

On November 1, the Glendale High School Auditorium was the venue for the Nairi Dance Studio concert dedicated to Janna Khachatryan’s 50th anniversary in her work. Singer Khachik Karadeghian dedicated a special song to Janna Khachatryan during the concert.

AMGA Television Organizes a Fundraiser

On November 1, beginning at 4 PM, AMGA-280, AABC-284 and High Vision – 281 TV stations broadcasted a live telethon fundraiser for the orphans and disabled children of Armenia.

Armenian National Peace Officers Association Honors the Memory of Deputy Jake Karajian

On October 25, the Armenian National Peace Officers Association gathered at the Kalaydjian Hall in the Diocesan Headquarters. The reception was followed by a dinner. Furthermore, the members of the association honored Deputy Jake Karajian and in his memory awarded Scholarship Awards to local law enforcement and elected officials.

Centennial Celebration of St. Anne Melkite Greek Catholic Church

On the weekend of October 24-25, St. Anne Melkite Greek Catholic Church celebrated One Hundred Years of its existence in the Los Angeles area. His Eminence Archbishop Cyril Salim Bustros, Eparch for the Diocese of Newton was present at the celebration weekend.

Forum Titled: “What Did the Armenian Schools of Southern California Accomplish in the Past 50 Years?”

On October 22, the Los Angeles Chapter of the Tekeyan Cultural Association organized an evening titled “What did the Southern California Armenian Schools Accomplish in the past 50 years?” The event took place at the Glendale Central Library where the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Vicar General represented the Primate.

Meeting Organized by the Burbank Human Relations Council

On October 25, the Burbank Human Relations Council held an event in recognition of Cultural Diversity Month entitled “Diversity in Leadership.” The event was held at Temple Beth Emet in Burbank and included City Manager Mike Flad as well as other city leaders. Representing the Western Diocese was Burbank Parish Treasurer Andre Shamalian. The event also included four other Armenian-Americans.

Christian Education Council Convenes at the Diocesan Headquarters

On October 24, the Christian Education Council convened at the Diocesan Headquarters. The meeting was presided by the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Vicar General and was chaired by Zaroohi Der Mugrdechian, Chair of the Christian Education Council. The Vicar General offered the opening prayer after which the council resumed the meeting.

Internal Documents Reveal UK Officials Misled Parliament on Armenian Genocide

A prominent legal expert, Mr. Geoffrey Robertson, exposed this week the false and inaccurate statements on the Armenian Genocide made by the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). The international jurist revealed that for many years the FCO (Foreign Ministry) had misled the British Parliament on the facts of the Armenian Genocide in order to curry favor with the Turkish government.