Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
3325 North Glenoaks Blvd.
Burbank, Ca 91504
Tel: 818-558-7474
Fax: 818-558-6333
Web:
Western Diocese e-Newsletter
Dear Reader
The second Sunday of the Great Lenten Period which is namely known as
the Sunday of the Expulsion can be entitled "Engagement in God’s Work
/ Partnering with God". I have purposely chosen these titles with the
thought that humanity needs a Return to God. Furthermore, by building
churches, being involved in humanitarian projects and in many
God-pleasing projects, we exemplify engagement in God’s work. By
taking on these glorious tasks, we are responding to God’s call. In
other words, God is seeking to enter the hearts of individuals but
above all, He is showing His love and care for mankind.
The Sunday of the Expulsion is remembered in our Church with a
specific reference to the first Adam who was expelled from Paradise
due to his sinful life. However, during the course of the same day, we
are reminded by the prayers of our Fathers and Gospel readings that
God is compassionate. Additionally, we are given the chance to be
reinstated in our adoption as sons and daughters of the Almighty God
through confession and repentance.
On the first Sunday of the Great Lenten period, we focused our
thoughts on surrendering into the Hands of God. On this second Sunday,
we wanted to focus on partnering in God’s work. The Sundays of the
Great Lenten period are the steps which head our lives toward
God. Each Sunday has a specific theme with specific Gospel
readings. As we participate in all of the religious services and
traditions established by our Fathers, we then are able to cultivate
our minds and souls to live a Christ-like life. In other words, the
entire period, is a time of spiritual preparation which leads us to
the Victorious Resurrection of Christ, our Lord.
In our concluding remarks, I would like to share with you brief a
thought by Bill Peatman which gives us a clear understanding of what
it means to be engaged in God’s work.
"God appears to be looking for partners who will share in the saving
work of the Gospel. God’s invitation is available to us all – not
based on merit or performance. God accepts us. What’s in question is
whether we will accept Jesus’ invitation to join him".
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian
Primate
February 21, 2010
The Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North
America, providing spiritual guidance and leadership to the
Armenian Apostolic community, is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit,
tax-exempt organization comprised of more than 50 churches
in 16 western states. It was established in 1898 as the
Diocese of the Armenian Church encompassing the entire
United States and Canada. In 1927 the Western Diocese was
formed to exclusivly serve the western United States.
3325 North Glenoaks Blvd. Burbank, CA 91504
Tel: (818) 558-7474 Fax: (818) 558-6333
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: