Western Diocese

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.

The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Burbank Cathedral Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Khajag Shahbazyan. He was assisted by the Deacons of the Parish. His Grace Bishop Sebouh Chouljian, Primate of the Diocese of Gougark, Armenia, the Very Rev. Fr. Baret Dz. V. Yeretzian and Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sipan Mekhsian were among the clergy present during the Palm Sunday service. The Khachadourian Choir performed hymns under the leadership of Director Dn. Stepan Gozumian. 

Bishop Sebouh Chouljian offered the Blessing of the Four Corners of the Earth (Andastan) and delivered an inspirational sermon about the mystery of Palm Sunday and the importance of Church in one's life. Having many children present on Palm Sunday, the Bishop reflected on passing the spiritual torch of our Holy Forefathers to the next generation of the faithful. Following the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, His Grace Bishop Sebouh Chouljian, the Very Rev. Fr. Baret Dz. V. Yeretzian, and Rev. Fr. Khajag Shahbazyan and the Choir performed the "Terenpatzek" service. "Terenpatzek" literally means opening of the doors (to Christ).  

Rev. Fr. Khajag Shahbazyan and His Grace Bishop Sebouh Chouljian distributed Holy Communion to the jubilant faithful.