January 9, 2015
Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate
6252 Honolulu Avenue
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Tel: (818) 248-7737
Fax: (818) 248-7745
E-mail: [email protected]
Website:
RECORD SHOW OF SUPPORT AT PRELATE’S CHRISTMAS DINNER
– EVENING HOSTED BY ALEX AND ARDA YEMENIDJIAN
On January 6, 2015, “Bagramian” Hall in Montebello was bustling with
Christmas cheer and merriment as six hundred of the Western Prelacy’s
closest friends and supporters joined H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, to collectively celebrate the Birth and Revelation of our Lord
Jesus Christ at what has become a beloved tradition within the community,
the “Prelate’s New Year and Christmas Dinner”. The event is the undertaking
of the Religious and Executive Councils and is organized by the Prelacy
Ladies Auxiliary.
Among the dignitaries and honored guests in attendance were Consul
General of Lebanon Johnny Ibrahim, Catholicosate Central Executive members
Khajag Dikijian and Vicken Kassabian, ARF Central Committee representative
Dr. Viken Yacoubian and members, representatives of ARS, Homenetmen,
Hamazkayin, ANC, parishes, schools, Prelacy committees, media, Forest Lawn,
and also Armenia’s first Foreign Minister Raffi Hovannisian and
newly-elected Mayor of Montebello Jack Hadjinian.
Master of Ceremonies Rev. Fr. Vazken Atmajian greeted the guests and
invited them to stand for the start of the official program with the
poignant clergy procession. Illuminated by candlelight alone, peace and
tranquility reigned in the hall as the Prelate and clergy entered chanting
Christmas hymns, uplifting the guests with love and harmony. The Apostle
Luke’s account of Christ’s Birth was read, followed by the traditional wine
and consecrated bread ceremony (tatakh).
On behalf of her fellow members, Ladies Auxiliary Chair Dzovig
Zetlian welcomed the guests and wished an enjoyable evening for all.
The message of His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos of the Great House of
Cilicia, was then broadcast. Our Pontiff conveyed his New Year and Christmas
well wishes to the Prelate and guests at the start of a new year, and then
focused his address on the importance of service to our church and nation
with greater organization, in pursuit of our demands, and with unity;
organization as a source of strength, bringing together the leadership and
people alike, perseverance as we demand our rights, especially on this 100th
anniversary year during which we must continue our struggle with greater
vigor and resolve, and unity of spirit. We are a dispersed people, but we
must remain united in spirit and stand before Turkey as a united front, one
nation, one homeland, one cause, said His Holiness.
On behalf of the Executive Council, Chairman Vahe Hovaguimian
welcomed the guests to an evening he referred to as a demonstration of our
faithfulness to the traditions of our forefathers and an opportunity to
collectively renew and rededicate ourselves to the responsibilities and
endeavors in the coming year. As we find ourselves in the year of the
Genocide centennial, we must dedicate our efforts this year to “remembering
and demanding,” said the Chairman. In conclusion, he expressed gratitude to
the Prelate for his leadership, thanked the Ladies Auxiliary and Prelacy
staff for their efforts, and thanked the guests for their continuous
support.
Consul General of Lebanon Johnny Ibrahim was invited to deliver his
remarks, which focused on continued unrest in the Middle East over the last
four years especially. He noted that Lebanon is involved in efforts to
combat terrorism and committed to protecting its minority populations.
Lebanon has always been and remains a country of coexistence, and the
Armenian people are a vital part of the country’s fabric, said the Consul
General, and reflecting on the upcoming centennial of the Armenian Genocide,
affirmed that the somber anniversary will be commemorated in Lebanon. He
concluded by wishing a new year filled with joy, prosperity, and the
fulfillment of hopes and dreams for the Armenian people and for all.
This year’s dinner was hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Alex and Arda
Yemenidjian. Among the major sponsors were Hank and Rita Khachaturian, Mrs.
Tina Carolan and the Carolan Family Foundation, and Mr. and Mrs. Gaydzag and
Anahid Ohanessian. Mr. and Mrs. Harout and Christina Jabarian provided the
evening’s souvenirs featuring the Genocide Centennial symbol and motto “we
remember and demand.” A record show of support was demonstrated this year by
the Prelacy’s sponsors and supporters.
Prior to the official start of the dinner guests enjoyed the music
of violinist Meroujan Markarian. The entertainment continued throughout the
dinner featuring performances by the Greg Hosharian quartet (Greg Hosharian
– piano, Salpi Kerkonian – flute, George Bilezikjian – drums, and Eileen
Amirian – vocals), Christmas hymns by Taline Nalbandian, and a dance by
Hamazkayin Ani Dance Company members.
The program concluded with the Prelate’s message. His Eminence began
by thanking God for the blessing of another year and for granting the
opportunity to exchange well wishes to one another at the dawn of a new year
and the Birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Prelate conveyed gratitude to
His Holiness Aram I for his indispensable leadership and guidance and
thanked the evening’s sponsors for their valuable support, in particular Mr.
and Mrs. Alex and Arda Yemenidjian for their generosity in hosting the
dinner and the Prelacy’s newest sponsors, Mr. and Mrs. Gaydzag and Anahid
Ohanessian. The Prelate gave an overview of the commemorative events planned
globally for the Genocide Centennial, calling for Armenians worldwide to
unite their efforts and resources in fulfillment of our demands and goals.
“The Armenian people became followers of Jesus and His Word from early on;
we submitted ourselves as a nation to His will and followed the way of life
He paved for us. We have had more than our share of trials and tribulations,
but we placed our faith and our hope in our Lord and Savior and we rose
again. No matter the challenges of tomorrow, we will rise again and again,”
stressed His Eminence. (The full text of the Prelate’s message will be
provided separately).
At the conclusion of his message the Prelate delivered the
benediction, after which guests joined clergy to close the evening with the
Cilician and Pontifical anthems.
***
PRELATE CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS DIVINE LITURGY
AT ST. MARY’S CHURCH IN GLENDALE
On Tuesday, January 6, 2015, the Birth and Theophany of our Lord
Jesus Christ was ceremoniously celebrated in Prelacy Churches with Divine
Liturgy and the blessing of water symbolizing the Baptism of our Lord. H.E.
Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, conducted services and delivered
his Christmas sermon at St. Mary’s Church in Glendale,
At the start of his sermon, the Prelate first conveyed his New Year
well wishes to the leadership of Armenia, His Holiness Karekin II,
Catholicos of all Armenian, and our Pontiff His Holiness Aram I, Catholicos
of the Great House of Cilicia. He then turned to the message of Christ’s
birth and the blessings granted to man through His earthly mission. Speaking
on the events that transpired on the night of the Nativity, His Eminence
highlighted that the humble shepherds were the first to receive the good
news of Christ’s Birth, a reward from God for their life of goodness and
devotion; that the three magi, important men of the time whom even kings
feared, traveled from faraway lands to bow in reverence before the newborn
King. God became man and came to this world to bring the gift of renewal.
The Nativity is an invitation to humility, and His earthly parents Joseph
and Mary are the epitome of obedience and faithfulness for us to emulate,
said the Prelate.
The Birth of Christ was the birth of the Sun of Justice. From the
early ages, our forefathers followed His Light, which gave us strength to
persevere in our many crises. Today, as we commemorate the 100th anniversary
of the Genocide, we will keep the spirit of our forefathers alive, by
trusting in God to lead us to the fulfillment of our demands. With unbending
faith, we will continue our path until the triumph of justice, conclude the
Prelate. Finally, His Eminence offered prayers for peace and justice in the
world, and especially in Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq, so that our brethren can
begin to rebuild their lives.
The Prelate conducted the blessing of water at the conclusion of
Divine Liturgy. Aren Soghomonian, son of Varant and Lena Soghomonian, served
as Godfather of the Cross. The service concluded with the Christmas hymn
“Great and Marvelous Mystery”.
On Wednesday, January 7, Christmas Memorial Day, the Prelate
presided over requiem service and the blessing of the four corners of the
earth (Antasdan) at the Hollywood Hills Forest Lawn “Hall of Liberty”.
Prelacy clergy participated in the service, which was also held at Glendale
Forest Lawn “Church of the Recessional.”
***
PRELATE CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS EVE DIVINE LITURGY
AT HOLY MARTYRS CHURCH IN ENCINO
On Monday, January 5, 2014, the eve of the Feast of the Nativity and
Theophany of our Lord was celebrated in Prelacy Churches with Divine Liturgy
and the lighting of the candle service (Jrakalooyts) symbolizing the Light
of Christ coming into the world. The Liturgy was preceded by the reading of
Scriptures by Sunday School students.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, celebrated
Christmas Eve Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at Holy Martyrs Church
in Encino. Parish Pastor Rev. Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian assisted at the
altar.
Prior to delivering the sermon, the Prelate expressed thanks to God
for granting another year to collectively celebrate Christmas, greeted the
parish family, commended the Sunday School students for their participation,
and wished a happy new year to all. His Eminence reflected on the Christmas
message of humility, the greatest example of which is the birth of the Son
of God in the most humble circumstances, in a manger, surrounded by farm
animals. The second lesson on humility comes from the modest shepherds, who
were tending to their sheep when they saw the bright star and received the
angels’ tidings that the King was born.
“At the start of a New Year, we are given this opportunity to renew
ourselves with the Christmas spirit. God became man to bring renewal to
mankind, which had turned away from God. Christ was born in humble
conditions in a demonstration of goodness, mercy, and grace of God, so that
we too can live in that same image. Finally, God became incarnate so that
His peace and love can reign in the world and in our hearts, and we are
called to spread His goodwill among one another”, stated the Prelate, and
concluded by praying for peace, love, and harmony among man.
The Jrakalooyts service was conducted at the conclusion of Divine
Liturgy. The Prelate lit a candle from the altar which was then used to
light the candles of the faithful as Christmas hymns were sung heralding the
Birth of our Lord.
***
CHRISTMAS DIVINE LITURGY AND BLESSING OF WATER
AT ARARAT HOME
On Thursday, January 8, 2015, Christmas was celebrated at Ararat
Home in Mission Hills with Divine Liturgy and the blessing of water
conducted by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, assisted by
clergy members.
The day began with Christmas hymns, Gospel readings, and the
blessing of water at the nursing facility. Religious Council Chair Very Rev.
Fr. Muron Aznikian conveyed the Prelate’s greetings and well wishes. After
the blessing of water, His Eminence conveyed his blessings to the residents
and wished a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year to all. Ararat Home
Board Chairman Joseph Kanimian, Esq. thanked the Prelate and Prelacy for
their enduring care and support and presented a New Year gift to His
Eminence as a token of appreciation. Residents received the Prelacy calendar
and illustrated Lord’s Prayers.
Divine Liturgy was then celebrated at the Sheen Chapel by Rev. Fr.
Vazken Atmajian, who also delivered the sermon. The Prelate conducted the
blessing of water at the conclusion of the service.
The Blessing of the Home service followed at the assisted living
facility, where His Eminence presented faculty members with mementos in
commendation of their dedicated service and the Prelacy Genocide Centennial
memento to Mr. Kanimian.
The visit concluded with a luncheon hosted by the administration,
during which by the request of the Prelate, Nune Avetisyan recited two
pieces of poetry.
***
CHRISTMAS SERVICE AND BLESSING OF WATER
AT GLENDALE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
On Monday, January 5, 2015, Armenian Christmas was celebrated at
Glendale Memorial Hospital with the Blessing of Water ceremony conducted by
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, assisted by Rev. Fr. Boghos
Tinkjian and St. Mary’s Church pastors.
The service was held in the Main Lobby with the participation of
Glendale Memorial Hospital President Jack Ivie, Glendale Police Chief Robert
Castro, City Council member Paula Devine, City Commissioner Seda Khojayan,
City Manager Scott Ochoa, Ms. Mary Hovaguimian representing Congressman Adam
Schiff, Ms. Taline Mangioglu representing State Senator Carol Liu,
administrators, and staff.
President Jack Ivie welcomed the Prelate and clergy, thanking them
for their traditional Christmas visit, and greeted also the honored guests,
wishing a happy new year to all.
The Prelate conveyed his New Year and Christmas greetings and well
wishes to the Glendale Memorial Hospital family and guests. He explained
that the Armenian Apostolic Church celebrates the Birth and Baptism of
Christ on the same day and gave an overview of the Blessing of Water
ceremony and of the Holy Muron, which is used during the ceremony from a
dove-shaped vessel, symbolizing the descent of the Holy Spirit during
Christ’s Baptism. The Birth of our Lord is the greatest gift bestowed to
mankind, the manifestation of God’s infinite love, said His Eminence, a gift
which continues to give centuries later and continues to transform hearts
and souls with hope, love, and goodwill. At the start of a new year, the
Prelate urged all to resolve to be thankful to God daily for His blessings
of health and wellness, for the love of family and friends, and for the
successes we enjoy. “May Christ be born again within our hearts and generate
new life within us so that we can live with goodness in His example, and
spread His love and mercy within our surroundings, and especially to the
less fortunate”. In conclusion, His Eminence commended the compassionate
care provided at the facility, prayed for the health of the patients, and
wished a blessed year for all filled with the priceless gifts of health,
love, peace, and joy.
The Blessing of the Home service was then conducted, during which
prayers were offered beseeching the Lord to protect and keep in peace the
facility and all within it. The Blessing of Water followed, symbolizing the
baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River and His Revelation as God. The service
concluded with the Lord’s Prayer. Guests were offered the blessed water and
received prayer cards as mementos. Afterward, the Prelate visited patient
rooms to offer prayers for healing. His Eminence also blessed a newborn baby
and conveyed his congratulations and well wishes to the parents.
***
NORTH HOLLYWOOD PARISH CELEBRATES 6TH ANNIVERSARY
On Sunday, January 4, 2015, the North Hollywood parish celebrated
the 6th anniversary of its establishment with Episcopal Divine Liturgy and
blessing of madagh conducted by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate. His Eminence was assisted at the altar by parish pastor Archpriest
Fr. Nareg Pehlivanian. Faithful in attendance included Executive Council
members Mr. Antranik Kasbarian and Mrs. Therese Kemanjian. During the
service, the Prelate blessed the new chalice and paten donated by Baghdik
Ekmekjian in memory of his parents.
During the sermon, the Prelate first greeted and congratulated the
pastor, board members, and parish family on their 6th anniversary
celebration and wished them continued successes for years to come. His
Eminence spoke about Christmas, which was to be celebrated the following two
days, stating that God gave man the greatest blessing and gift of His Son
Jesus Christ to show us the way to live in His ideal example. The Birth of
Christ is the greatest demonstration of love, of God’s immense love toward
man. It also brings a message of faith and obedience, of humility and
service, ideals which must guide our lives in the example of Christ, Who
fully submitted to the will of His Father throughout His earthly life,
concluded His Eminence.
The Prelate conducted the blessing of madagh at the conclusion of
the service.
A New Year and Christmas reception followed in the Church hall,
during which Sunday School students reenacted the Nativity of Christ through
hymns and psalms. The Prelate commended and blessed the students and parents
and conveyed his well wishes to all for a happy new year.
***
PRELATE PRESIDES OVER REQUIEM SERVICE
FOR VAHAN HOVANNESIAN
On Saturday, January 3, 2015, a state funeral was held in Armenia
for Armenia’s Ambassador to Germany and long-time ARF leader Vahan
Hovannesian, who passed away on December 28, 2014 after a long illness.
Within the Western Prelacy, the life and service of the late leader was
remembered with requiem service at St. Mary’s Church, followed by a memorial
gathering.
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, presided over Divine
Liturgy and the requiem service, and delivered his tribute to Vahan
Hovannesian, commending his lifelong service to the Armenian nation and
cause. ARF Western Region Central Committee members, representatives of
community organizations, Executive Council Chair Mr. Vahe Hovaguimian, and
Treasurer Mr. Meher Der Ohanessian attended the service.
The memorial gathering organized by the ARF Central Committee
followed at the “Armenak Der Bedrosian” Hall. The Prelate attended the first
part of the program, then headed to the North Hollywood parish to celebrate
Divine Liturgy and conduct the blessing of madagh on the 6th anniversary of
the establishment of the parish community.
On behalf of the Prelate, Rev. Fr. Vazken Atmajian delivered his
remarks on the somber occasion. Mr. Saro Nazarian served as Master of
Ceremonies. The keynote speech was delivered by ARF Central Committee member
Mr.Vahe Bozoyan. The event also featured a cultural program.
From: Baghdasarian