Western Diocese

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.

During the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, the Primate ordained Bryan Arakelian and Daniel Hairabedian to the Diaconate. In his remarks, Parish Priest Rev. Archpriest Fr. Yeghia Hairabedian praised and commended the service of the newly-ordained deacons.

Following the service, the church held a "Harvest Banquet." The Parish Priest blessed the tables and Parish Council Vice-Chair and Master of Ceremonies Eileen Crowley offered the welcoming message. Mrs. Crowley thanked the Primate and Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian for being present for the annual event.

It has been a tradition in St. Gregory Armenian Church in Fowler to honor a couple of the church who have been long-time servants. This year's Heritage Spotlight shined upon Mr. and Mrs. Donald and Adeline Arakelian. Trumpeter Lloyd Ellis and pianist Michelle Graves delighted the crowd with their beautiful duets. The newly-ordained deacons received special recognition during the banquet.

Rev. Archpriest Fr. Yeghia Hairabedian expressed his gratitude to the Primate and the accompanying guests for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy and his ordination of the deacons. The Parish Priest also informed that on April 11, 2010, the St. Gregory Armenian Church will be celebrating its centennial. Furthermore, the Primate thanked the Parish Priest for his devout service and delivered an uplifting message to the faithful and blessed them in their endeavors.

The former Parish Priest Rev. Archpriest Fr. Kevork Arakelian was also present for the banquet.