Western Diocese

March 2010 Archive

Palm Sunday – Armenian Church of La Canada and Crescenta Valley

On Palm Sunday, March 28, 2010, Parish Priest Rev. Archpriest Fr. Hovsep Hagopian celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon. He was assisted by Dns. Stepan Marikian, Varazdat Barseghian, Shant Dilanian, and the Choir under the leadership of Hrair Yeghiaian.

Palm Sunday at Burbank Cathedral Parish

On Palm Sunday, March 28, 2010, more than 500 faithful gathered at the Burbank Cathedral Parish to celebrate the entry of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, to the Holy City of Jerusalem.

Palm Sunday Service and 7th Year Anniversary – St. Peter, Glendale

On Palm Sunday, Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Vazken Movsesian celebrated the Divine Liturgy. Furthermore, His Eminence Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian delivered the sermon.

Easter Schedule (April 1 – April 4)

We are pleased to inform the Easter schedule of the Diocesan clergy.

Divine Liturgy Celebration at Ararat Home, Mission Hills

On Palm Sunday, Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sipan Mekhsian celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at Ararat Home in Mission Hills, California. Dn. Stepan Hovagimian served at the Holy Altar.

Palm Sunday – St. Kevork, Glendale

On Palm Sunday, many St. Kevork parishioners gathered to celebrate the victorious entry of Christ, our Lord, into the Holy City of Jerusalem.

Palm Sunday – Armenian Church of La Verne

On Palm Sunday, Parish Priest Rev. Archpriest Fr. Nareg Matarian celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon in the Armenian Church of La Verne. Many faithful from the former St. Sarkis Parish of East Los Angeles were present for the Palm Sunday service.

Palm Sunday – Armenian Church of Ventura County

The Armenian Church of Ventura County welcomes a different Visiting Priest to celebrate the Divine Liturgy on the first and fourth Sunday of each month.

Palm Sunday – St. Andrew, Cupertino

On March 28, 2010, St. Andrew Armenian Church in Cupertino celebrated Palm Sunday with a celebration of the Divine Liturgy. Having accepted the invitation of the Primate, His Eminence Rev. Archbishop Fr. Datev Sarkissian celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon. Palm leaves were blessed and distributed to the children who walked around the church in memory of the procession of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ into Jerusalem.

Palm Sunday Service – St. Peter, Van Nuys

On Palm Sunday, the Primate celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon in St. Peter Armenian Church in Van Nuys, California.

Throughout Armenia “Children Celebrate Palm Sunday”

With the blessings of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, the Christian Education Center of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, along with the Armenian Round Table Foundation and with the assistance of the organization "Church for the Church", jointly initiated a program entitled "Palm Sunday Celebrated by Children" on the feast day of Palm Sunday.

Palm Sunday in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

On March 28, 2010, the Armenian Holy Apostolic Church celebrated the Feast of Palm Sunday, commemorating the triumphant entry of our Lord Jesus Christ into Jerusalem.

Primate’s Message - Holy Wednesday

Holy Wednesday has been primarily signified with the betrayal of Christ. The events of the day are described in a most vivid way, which reveal the agony of Christ, our Lord. Judas, being one of his disciples, betrays the master, which causes the Teacher much pain. The more we concentrate on this thought of betrayal, the more we understand the same pain is caused by all of us who diminish in our spirituality the presence of Christ.

Primate’s Message – Holy Tuesday

The spiritual readings of the day are most challenging for all of us. - Jesus authority (Mark 11:27-33) - The parable of the two sons (Matthew 21:28-32) - The parable of the evil farmers (Mark 12:1-12) - The parable of the wedding feast (Matthew 22:1-14)

Primate’s Message - Holy Monday

Holy Monday is the day, which gives us the biblical accounts of the creation story. On that day, we read the first three chapters of the Book of Genesis, which tell us not only the story of the Creation, but also the expulsion of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden. However, God’s immeasurable love has been reflected in the Incarnation of His Only Begotten Son, thus granting us the chance to be reinstated in the original honor bestowed upon us by God.

Palm Sunday – Doorway to the Victorious Resurrection

As Christ entered Jerusalem, the people of the Holy City rejoiced and their lives were transformed by the presence of God. This is the ultimate goal of the Holy Week. We must renew our lives by enriching our spirituality with the Word of God and His wisdom.

Did Turkey’s Ambassador Really Lobby For Passage of Genocide Resolution?

Thousands of articles are posted on the internet every day. But, very few make us fall off our chairs! Last week I came across a shocking news item posted by the Turkish Forum -- the largest website for Turkish news. It was titled: "Forgotten Ambassador in Sierra Leone Uses Armenian Genocide Resolution to solve his Problem."

Easter Schedule (March 28 – April 4)

We are pleased to inform the Easter schedule of the Diocesan clergy.

Dn. Kevork Panoyan’s Book Presentation

On March 23, 2010, under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, and the organizational efforts of the USC Student Body, Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan and the members of the Parish Council of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church in Pasadena, a book presentation was held by author Dn. Kevork Panoyan.

Bible Study Sessions at Western Diocese

We are pleased to inform that the Christian Educational Department of the Western Diocese under the direction of Mashdots Jobanian has almost concluded the first session of the Bible Study classes. The first session began on October 12, 2009 and will continue through March 29, 2010.

“Jan Tavriz” Remembrance Event in Memory of Archbishop Melik-Tangian

On March 20, 2010, the “Jan Tavriz” Organization organized a dinner at the Glendale Civic Auditorium. Many Armenians from Tavriz gathered at the vent to honor memory of the late Archbishop Nerses Melik-Tangian. The profit from the event would be used to build a cultural-educational center in Armenia. Under the direction of Mr. Albert Avanesian, Foundation Chairman, this traditional event is in its 5th year of existence.

Armenian-American Chamber of Commerce 11th Annual Business Gala

On March 20, 2010, the Armenian-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Los Angeles held its 11th Annual Business Gala at the Hilton Hotel in Glendale, California.

Summer Camp Executive Board and Camp Committee Meeting at Western Diocese

On March 20, 2010, the Summer Camp Executive Board and Camp Committee held a meeting at the Western Diocese. The main topic of discussion was the preparation efforts of the 2010 Hye Camp.

Postcard Exhibition “Armenians in Turkey 100 Years Ago”

On March 18, 2010, the Cultural Committee of Organization of Istanbul Armenians Ararat Eskijian Museum and NAASR (California Branch) organized a postcard exhibition titled “Armenians in Turkey 100 Years Ago” at the Glendale Public Library. Mr. Osman Kosker, the editor and owner of “Bir Zamanlar” publishing house, explained the book of postcards which were from the collection of Orlando Carlo Calumeno. Rev. Fr. Mikayel Kyureghian was the Diocesan clergy who was present at the event.

La Crescenta Parish Organizes Reception Following Median Day of Lent Vigil

On March 10, 2010, the Sunday School of the Armenian Church of La Canada and Crescenta Valley, under the direction of Superintendent Miss Aghavni Achekian, organized a reception following the Median Day of Lent prayer service.

Supreme Spiritual Council Convenes in Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

On March 19, 2010, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians presided over the Supreme Spiritual Council meeting at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. Following the Lord’s Prayer, the Pontiff delivered his message of blessing to the members. The 2009 administrative and financial reports of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin were presented to the members of the Council. Among the topics of discussion included issues pertaining to the hierarchical sees, intra-church activities and ecumenical relations.

Ladies Society Central Council Holds Annual Retreat

Under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, the Ladies Society Central Council chaired by Araxie Boyamian, organized its Annual Retreat that took place from March 17-19, 2010. The Retreat Committee Lena Simonian and Meline Agagianian planned an exciting spiritual retreat in a beautiful location at Mater Dolorosa Passionist Center in Sierra Madre, California. This year’s theme, “The Meaning of Lent; Road to Victory,” was elaborated by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Vartan Kasparian Religious Director of the retreat and Parish Priest of St. Mary Armenian Church in Yettem, Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan, Parish Priest of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church in Pasadena, and Mashdots Jobanian, Director of Religious Education Department of the Western Diocese. Time had been set aside for Christian Fellowship, devotionals and spiritual worship about Lenten Practices of the Armenian Church, a Look at Lent, Jesus Christ; The Way, The Truth, and The Life (The Eucharist) and “How can I make Lent spiritually profitable.”

Pan-ACYO Governing Board Members Meet at Mother See

On March 15, 2010, local Governing Board members of the international Pan-Armenian Church Youth Organization (ACYO) met at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. The Pan-ACYO has been organized under the auspices of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians.

Primate's Message - "Become an imitator to Christ . . ."

The sixth Sunday of the Great Lenten Journey is entitled the Sunday of Advent. Truly, as we walk through the journey with the prayers of our fathers and discipline our Christian lives with certain traditions of the Armenian Church, we then grasp the essence of the Incarnation of the Son of God to be the reflection of God’s immense love for humanity.

Glendale Religious Leaders Association (GRLA) Meets at Western Diocese

On March 18, 2010, the members of the Glendale Religious Leaders Association met at the Western Diocese. The Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Vicar General, welcomed the guests and offered the opening prayer.

Patriarch of Russian Orthodox Church Concludes Official Visit to Armenia

On March 18, 2010, His Holiness Kirill I, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia concluded his three day official visit to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

His Holiness Karekin II and Patriarch Kiril I Visit St. Mary Russian Orthodox Church in Yerevan

On the morning of March 17, 2010, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, and His Holiness Kirill I, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, visited St. Mary Russian Orthodox Church in Yerevan.

Church Leaders Visit Armenian Genocide Memorial

On the morning of March 17, 2010, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, and His Holiness Kirill I, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, visited the Memorial to the Armenian Genocide at Tsitsernakaberd and paid tribute to the eternal memory of the 1.5 million Armenian victims who perished in the first genocide of the 20th century. The two pontiffs were accompanied by members of the Brotherhood of Holy Etchmaidzin and the visiting delegation of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Patriarch Kiril I at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

The official visit of His Holiness Kirill I, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia to the Armenian Church commenced with a welcoming service (Hrashapar), offered in the Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin. Following greetings and remarks by His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians and His Holiness Kirill I, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, the two Pontiffs were escorted to the Pontifical Residence by the members of the Brotherhood of Holy Etchmiadzin, where the two held a private meeting.

Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Welcomed to Armenia and the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

On March 16, 2010, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, and His Holiness Kirill I, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, were met in the Mother See by a procession of members of the Brotherhood and seminarians of Holy Etchmiadzin, Diocesan Primates and faithful.

His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians Welcomes Kiril I, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia

Upon the invitation of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, His Holiness Kirill I, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia arrived in Armenia and the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin on March 16, 2010, for an official visit.

Ladies Society of La Canada Parish Organizes Cultural Concert

On March 14, 2010, the Ladies Society of the Armenian Church of La Canada organized a classical and cultural concert as a means of a fundraiser for the Parish.

Alfred and Marguerite Hovsepian School Holds 26th Annual Ball

The Alfred and Marguerite Hovsepian School held its 26th Annual Ball On March 13, 2010 at the newly renovated hall of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church in Pasadena, California. The highly successful event was organized by the Parent-Teacher Organization of the School and was headed by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan, Parish Priest.

Vicar General Represents Primate at Manoogian-Demirjian School Event

On March 13, 2010, the Vicar General represented the Primate at the Manoogian-Demirjian School banquet and fundraiser in Canoga Park. The event was organized by the Parent-Teacher Organization of the School. The Vicar General offered the blessing of the tables and expressed the Primate’s warm message.

Cathedral Construction Committee Meeting at Western Diocese

On March 13, 2010, the Primate presided over the Cathedral Fundraising Committee Meeting at the Western Diocese. Chaired by Mr. Armen Hampar, the members discussed the current phase of construction as well as the upcoming phases. The Blessing Ceremony of the Cathedral is scheduled for August 14, 2010.

His Eminence Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian and Vicar General Attend Inaugural Celebration of John A. Perez

On March 12, 2010, His Eminence Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian joined by the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Vicar General attended the Inaugural Celebration of the 68th Speaker of the California Assembly, the Honorable John A. Perez.

AGBU Pasadena Secondary School Students Visit Western Diocese

On March 12, 2010, 27 AGBU Pasadena Secondary School students from graduating class led by their Principal Talin Karkotorian visited the Western Diocese. They were welcomed by Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian, Diocesan Youth Director.

Advice to Prime Minister Erdogan: Continue Denying the Armenian Genocide

It is a well-known fact that Turkish leaders are exceptional diplomats. However, as soon as they hear the words Armenian Genocide, Greece, Cyprus or Kurdistan, these diplomats lose their "cool" and resort to emotional outbursts and undiplomatic actions that harm their own interests.

WD to Host ADAA Event

The Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, is pleased to announce that they will be hosting “An Introduction to the Armenian Dramatic Arts Alliance (ADAA) – Celebrating Armenian Victory and Creativity” on Tuesday, April 27, 2010, at 7:00 PM at the Western Diocese located at 3325 North Glenoaks Boulevard in Burbank, California.

Primate Urges Armenian-Americans to take part in 2010 Census

Millions of Americans will begin receiving their census forms in the mail. His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America has called upon each Armenian-American to take part in the 2010 Census.

Primate's Message "Praying to God - Becoming Ambassadors of Christ"

Praying to God is the ultimate message of the fifth Sunday of the Great Lenten Journey. The Gospel reminds us of a certain widow confronted by an unjust Judge, who has continuously ignored her case. However, the widow’s tireless and unceasing prayers led the Judge to change his ignorance. Additionally, he became ashamed of his behavior. What we actually see in the commitment of the widow is the reflection of divine strength. God chose her to be an ambassador of changing the hardened soul of the public servant.

Primate Presides Over Vigil Service at St. Mary Armenian Church in Costa Mesa

On March 11, 2010, the Primate presided over the Vigil Service at St. Mary Armenian Church in Costa Mesa. He was assisted by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Moushegh Tashjian, Parish Priest, the Parish Deacons and the Choir.

Sunday School Workshop at St. Gregory the Illuminator, Pasadena

We are pleased to inform that the Christian Education Council of the Western Diocese will be having Sunday School workshops (“Seasoned With Grace”) in different Parishes of the Diocese throughout the Great Lenten season.

Easter Schedule (March 28 – April 4)

We are pleased to inform the Easter schedule of the Diocesan clergy.

Head Knight of “Knights of Vartan” Visits Western Diocese

On March 11, 2010, Mr. Haig Deranian, Head Knight of the “Knights of Vartan” visited the Western Diocese with Mr. Robert Barsam, member of the Diocesan Council.

Primate Presides Over Median Day of Lent Prayer Service

On March 10, 2010, the Primate presided over the Median Day of Lent Prayer Service at St. John Garabed Armenian Church in Hollywood, California. He was assisted by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Manoug Markarian, Parish Priest and the Parish Deacons and Choir.

Sunrise Service at Western Diocese

On March 10, 2010, the Primate presided over the Sunrise Service at the Western Diocese. Numerous Diocesan clergy from the Los Angeles area were present for the service including His Eminence Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian, and the visiting Primate of Koukark His Grace Bishop Sebouh Chouljian.

Members of Clergy Meet with His Grace Bishop Sebouh Chouljian

On March 10, 2010, the Primate joined by His Eminence Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian, and numerous Diocesan clergy welcomed His Grace Bishop Sebouh Chouljian, Primate of the Diocese of Koukark, Armenia at the Western Diocese.

Primate’s Visit to AGBU Secondary School, Pasadena

On March 9, 2010, the Primate paid a visit to AGBU Secondary School in Pasadena, California. He was welcomed by Mrs. Talin Karkotorian, School Principal and the Teaching Staff.

60 AGBU Manoogian – Demirjian School Students Visit Western Diocese

On March 8, 2010, 60 AGBU Manoogian – Demirjian School students from graduating class led by their teacher Dr. Minas Kojaian visited the Western Diocese. They were welcomed by Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian, Diocesan Youth Director.

St. James, San Francisco Helps “Friends of Warm Hearth” through Western Diocese

We are pleased to inform that St. James Armenian Church in San Francisco has made a donation of $1,000 to “Friends of Warm Hearth”, an organization which provides holistic care for orphans with disabilities in Armenia. Since the opening of “Friends of Warm Hearth”, the Western Diocese has contributed $6,000 to the organization.

Classical Concert at First Congregational Church, Glendale

On March 7, 2010, a classical concert with the title “The Sound of Spring” was held at the First Congregational Church in Glendale, California. The concert was organized by the Hi-Am Charity Foundation. Representing the Primate at the event were Rev. Archpriest Fr. Hovsep Hagopian, Parish Priest of Armenian Church of La Canada, Dn. Hovnan Vardanyan, Diocesan Priesthood-Candidate and Mrs. Alenoush Yeghnazar, Choir Director of Burbank Cathedral Parish.

Primate Attends Book Presentation Ceremony of Yervant Babaian

On March 7, 2010, the Primate presided over the evening honoring 75 years of service of author Yervant Babaian. The event which was held at the Glendale Public Library also showcased the presentation of the author’s latest book, “They should not be forgotten”. The event was wonderfully organized by the Los Angeles Chapter of the Tekeyan Cultural Association and the Cultural Union of Armenians of Aintab.

Primate Presides Over Prayer Service on the 20th Anniversary of Passing of Late Patriarch Snork Kaloustian

On March 7, 2010, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America presided over a prayer service on the occasion of the 20th Anniversary passing of his Beatitude Patriarch of Constantinople Shnork Kaloustian. The Primate was joined by His Eminence Archbishop Vatché Hovsepian, Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan, Rev. Archpriest Fr. Dr. Zaven Arzoumanian and visiting Primate of Koukark, Armenia, His Grace Bishop Sebouh Chouljian.

Armenia Fund Meeting

The Western Diocese continues to support and encourage the vital programs of the United Armenia Fund which are being implemented in Armenia and Artsakh. On March 6, 2010, the UAF held a meeting where Mr. Raffi Kendirjian represented the Primate.

Cathedral Construction Committee Meeting at Western Diocese

On March 6, 2010, the Primate presided over the Cathedral Fundraising Committee Meeting at the Western Diocese. Chaired by Mr. Armen Hampar, the members discussed the current phase of construction. We are pleased to inform that the Holy Altar and the Baptismal Font are taking form inside the Cathedral. The construction of the seating benches of the Cathedral is also in process. The Blessing Ceremony of the Cathedral is scheduled for August 14, 2010.

Primate Presides Over Lenten Prayer Service at St. James, Los Angeles

On March, 5, 2010, the Primate presided over the Lenten Prayer Service at St. James Armenian Church in Los Angeles, California. He was assisted by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Arshag Khatchadourian, Parish Priest, the Parish Deacons and the Choir. The Primate delivered his message emphasizing the importance of prayer throughout the Great Lenten period. A Lenten reception followed the church service.

“Role of Women in the Church”

On March 5-6, 2010, Mr. Hayk Madoyan, the Director of the Diocesan Library, represented the Primate at the symposium entitled “Role of Women in the Church”.

“Women’s World Day of Prayer”

On March 5, 2010, members from four Armenian religious denominations gathered at the United Armenian Congregational Church to celebrate the Women’s World Day of Prayer.

Primate Presides Over Annual Parish Assembly, Las Vegas

On March 4, 2010, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, presided over the Annual Parish Assembly of the Armenian Church in Las Vegas.

“Junior Godfathers” Reception at Western Diocese

On March 4, 2010, The Primate joined by Rev. Fr. Khajag Shahbazyan, Parish Priest of Burbank Cathedral Parish paid a visit to the "Little Angels" Art School. The Primate gave a spiritual message to the children and commended the dedicated service of Mrs. Maggie Blikian, the Principal of the school. His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian parted with a prayer and the blessing of the school.

Primate’s Visit to Little Angels School

On March 4, 2010, The Primate joined by Rev. Fr. Khajag Shahbazyan, Parish Priest of Burbank Cathedral Parish paid a visit to the "Little Angels" Art School. The Primate gave a spiritual message to the children and commended the dedicated service of Mrs. Maggie Blikian, the Principal of the school. His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian parted with a prayer and the blessing of the school.

Supreme Spiritual Council Convenes in Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

On March 2, 2010, His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians presided over the Supreme Spiritual Council meeting at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

Armenian-Americans Should not Allow Obama and Clinton to Bury Genocide Bill

It was bad enough that Pres. Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had failed to keep their campaign pledge to reaffirm the facts of the Armenian Genocide. They sunk to a new low last week, when Mrs. Clinton announced that she and the President opposed adoption of the Armenian Genocide resolution by the full House, following its passage by the Foreign Affairs Committee.

The Cathedral is the Testimony of Our Faith

The Western Diocese has embarked on a marvelous project. With the rising of the glorious Diocesan Cathedral, we are indeed witnessing one of the greatest achievements in the history of the Western Diocese. The completion date is set for June 2010.

This is Narek Movsesyan

This is Narek Movesyan. He is three years old. In December 2009, he and his mother Anahid traveled to the United States of America to receive treatment for his cancer at the City of Hope in Duarte, California.

Primate's Lenten Message - The Hour of Decision

The fourth Sunday of the Lenten Journey offers us the special time to evaluate the course of our life. According to our church tradition, we are offered the parable of the unjust steward, which mirrors in its broader scope, our relationship with God. Often, we fail in our responsibilities to live a life with God, and in applying the messages of Christ, our Lord, in our everyday life. However, we are challenged to set a new beginning as we make the firm decision to change the course of our life.

CEC Event – St. John Garabed, San Diego

On February 27, 2010, on the occasion of the Great Lent, the Christian Education Council of the Western Diocese presented a Lenten Workshop entitled “Seasoned With Grace” at St. John Garabed Armenian Church in San Diego.

Western Diocese Will Participate in “Ascending Voice II”

On March 3, 2010, the Primate welcomed Mr. Darryl Tippens, Provost of Pepperdine University and Mr. Levon Gougasian, Professor at Pepperdine University to the Western Diocese.

Jean Barsam Hosts Reception for Wives of Godfathers and Benefactors

On March 3, 2010, Mrs. Jean Barsam hosted a reception for the wives of the Godfathers and Benefactors of the Cathedral.

Primate Visits Alfred and Marguerite Hovsepian School

On March 2, 2010, His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, visited the Alfred and Marguerite Hovsepian School in Pasadena. He was accompanied by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan, Pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church in Pasadena, and Dn. Adis Badrosian. Mr. Shahe Mangrian, Director of the School, warmly welcomed the Primate and his company.

Primate’s Pastoral Visit to Armenian Church of the Desert, Rancho Mirage

On March 2, 2010, the Primate joined by Rev. Fr. Khajag Shahbazyan paid a pastoral visit to the Armenian Church of the Desert in Rancho Mirage, California. The Primate presided over the Annual Parish Assembly during which the construction efforts of the Parish were discussed.

Primate Attends Memorial Concert Dedicated to Famous Musician Khachatur Avetisyan

On February 28, 2010, the Primate attended a musical concert dedicated to world-famous Armenian composer Khachatur Avetisyan.

Primate's Pastoral Visit to Armenian Church in Riverside

On February 28, 2010, the Primate made a pastoral visit to the Armenian Church in Riverside where he celebrated the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon.

Primate Presides Over Northern California Regional Meeting

On February 27, 2010, the Primate presided over the Northern California Regional Meeting at St. Andrew Armenian Church in Cupertino, Santa Clara Valley. The participants included Parish Priests, members of the Parish Councils, Diocesan Delegates of the Northern California Region.

Primate Presides over Lenten Evening Service at Armenian Church in La Verne

On February 25, 2010, with the participation of Rev. Archpriest Fr. Nareg Matarian, Parish Priest, the Deacons and the Choir, the Primate presided over the Lenten Evening Service at the Armenian Church in La Verne. The Primate delivered his message and called upon the Parish Council, Ladies Society and the faithful to support Fr. Nareg and work collectively to carry out the mission of the Parish.

Armenian Church of La Canada Visits Ararat Home, Mission Hills

On February 27, 2010, Rev. Archpriest Fr. Hovsep Hagopian, Parish Priest, the Ladies Society, the Sunday and Saturday School teachers and students, Dn. Varazdat Barseghian of the Armenian Church of La Canada visited Ararat Home in Mission Hills, California.

Rev. Archpriest Fr. Arshag Khatchadourian Attends Judge Dickran Tavrizian Fellowship Inaugural Reception

Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County (NLS-LA) created the Dickran Tevrizian (DT) Fellowship Program to honor Judge Dickran Tevrizian’s long standing commitment to the Armenian community. Judge Tevrizian has dedicated his career to public service serving on the state and federal bench for over 30 years.

If Turks had not Denied the Genocide, CBS wouldn’t have Aired this Show

Were it not for the Turkish government’s constant denials and distortions, the Armenian Genocide could have become a forgotten episode in world history.

Praying for Forgiveness

The third Sunday of the Lenten Journey is entitled in the Armenian Church as the “Sunday of the Prodigal Son”. The lesson of the day deepens in our spirituality many important thoughts such as confessing our wrongdoings and flaws, but above all, praying for kindness and forgiveness.