Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of America
3325 North Glenoaks Blvd.
Burbank, Ca 91504
Tel: 818-558-7474
Fax: 818-558-6333
Web:
Primate to Bless Government Officials During
Easter Week Ceremony
The Western Diocese would like to announce that for the first time
in the history of the Diocese prominent leaders from the Los Angeles
area have been invited by His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian to
participate in the traditional ceremony of the `Washing of the Feet.’
His Eminence is pleased that the Honorable Supervisor Michael
Antonovich has accepted his invitation to participate in the
observance.
The Washing of the Feet, which is observed on Maundy Thursday during
Holy Week, is one of the most beautiful and meaningful services in the
Armenian Church. It commemorates the blessed occasion when Jesus took
a towel and girded Himself and began washing His disciples’ feet,
setting an example of humility and love for the earliest members of
the Christian Church. It is on this occasion that we contemplate the
true meaning of sacrifice and service. It is these qualities that
define a true leader; therefore it is all the more meaningful that
our elected officials become part of this service.
In regards to the upcoming ceremony His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan
Derderian said, `We, as Armenian-Americans, are truly blessed to be
members of a society where our leaders have become vital participants
in the life of our community. We should extend our hand to them and
become partners in building better cities, and better communities. As
part of this partnership I wish to offer to them the opportunity to
become integrated in all aspects of our culture, so that while
serving as our representatives they can have a true understanding of
what it is to be Armenian.’
The Service of the Washing of the Feet will be conducted by
Archbishop Derderian at St. James Armenian Church, located at 4950
West Slauson Ave., Los Angeles, California 90056. The service will
begin at 7:00pm. All faithful of the Armenian Church are invited to
attend. For more information please call the Western Diocese at (818)
558-7474.
OFFICE OF THE WESTERN DIOCESE
April 6, 2006
Burbank, California