Western Diocese

The public celebration of the formation of Christian Churches Together in the USA was held on Wednesday, February 7, at 7:30 p.m. in the Pasadena Presbyterian Church This is the largest Ecumenical group in the United States of America and the Armenian Apostolic Church  is a part of this Christian organization.  The theme this year was “Open our ears and loosen our tongues.”  (Mark 7: 31-37). 

Representing the Western Diocese on this first day of fellowship were:  Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian, Archpriest Fr. Sipan Mekhsian, Very Fr. Kegham DZV Zakarian and Deacon Mayis Shahbazian.  Bishop Viken Aykazian, the Diocesan Legate from Washington, represented the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of North Ameirca. 

On February 8^th His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian of the Western Diocese hosted approximately 95 members, representing different churches.  The evening began at 6:30 p.m. with an Armenian Evening song with the participation of Diocesan clergy, with a dinner following at 7:00 p.m.

In his welcoming remarks, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian stated “My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, it is with immense spiritual contentment and joy that I welcome you at the Headquarters of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church.  It is our honor to host all the representatives of Christian Churches by the oldest institution amongst all Christian Churches. The Christian Churches together, the largest Ecumenical body in the United States of America has an important role to play in the spiritual life of the citizens of this country.  As pastors and leaders of the Christian Churches we have the most important task to serve our communities with the love of Christ in humility.  Thus also cultivating the minds, souls and the spirit of our congregants with the knowledge of God.  Therefore, I extend to you all a warm welcome and best wishes and success to all your endeavors.  Unity of the church in spirit should be reflected in our relationship and collaboration.  Let this remain to be the utmost goal and the  motivation of our mission.”