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March 13, 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: www.westernprelacy.org
EPISCOPAL DIVINE LITURGY AND BLESSING OF MADAGH ON THE NAME DAY OF FORTY
MARTYRS CHURCH IN ORANGE COUNTY
Sunday, March 15 is the fifth Sunday of Lent, known as Sunday of the
Judge. Saturday, March 14, is the Feast of the Forty Martyrs, which is also
the name day celebration of Forty Martyrs Church in Orange County. On this
occasion, on Sunday, March 15, 2015, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, will celebrate Divine Liturgy, deliver the sermon, and conduct the
blessing of madagh, at Forty Martyrs Church.
The feast commemorates the unwavering faith and martyrdom of the
forty brave soldiers of Sepastia who rejected the Roman Emperor's order to
return to the pagan faith and courageously and boldly proclaimed their
allegiance to the Christian faith. As a result, they endured an agonizing
death in a freezing lake, yet never wavered in their faith. It is a timely
message for the present day as Christians in certain parts of the world are
again being subjected to persecution and death for their faith.
***
SPECIAL EVENING HONORING
RENOWNED COMPOSER DIKRAN MANSOURIAN
On the evening of Thursday, March 19, a special event will be held
at the Prelacy "Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian" Hall honoring renowned
composer Dikran Mansourian. The Prelate will preside over the event, which
is organized by the Prelacy Cultural-Educational Committee.
The program features a presentation by Takouhi Arzoumanian, remarks
by LARK Musical Society Director Vatsche Barsoumian, and a cultural
performance. A reception will follow. The program begins at 7:00 p.m.
***
CHAMLIAN GRADUATING CLASS VISITS THE PRELACY
In accordance with a tradition established years ago, on the morning
of Friday, March 13, 2015, the graduation class of Vahan and Anoush Chamlian
School visited the Prelacy to receive the blessings of H.E. Archbishop
Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, prior to their class trip to Armenia and
graduation. The forty-two students were accompanied by Principal Dr. Talin
Kargodorian, Vice-Principal Mrs. Rita Kaprielian, teachers and parents.
Joining the Prelate were Rev. Fr. Boghos Tinkjian and Archpriest Fr. Nareg
Pehlivanian.
Upon their arrival, the students first entered the "St. Dertad and
St. Ashkhen" Chapel to kiss the Bible, after which they headed to the
"Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian" Hall where they presented a program of
songs, dance, and recitations.
The Prelate welcomed and commended the students for their touching
presentations. His Eminence noted that their upcoming trip to Armenia is all
the more meaningful this year as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of
the Genocide, and also explained the canonization ceremony that will be
conducted in Etchmiadzin on April 23rd.
The Prelate also spoke to the students about the meaning and purpose
of Lent, explaining that it is a time for spiritual renewal, fortification,
and cleansing, and in conclusion urged the youth to heed the commandments of
our Lord, to be obedient, studious, and to keep from wrongdoing.
The visit came to a close with "Cilicia" and the Armenian national
anthem. Prior to their return to school, the students were given Genocide
Centennial commemorative posters by the Prelate.
***
MEMORIAL SERVICE AND UNVEILING OF GENOCIDE MONUMENT AT ARARAT HOME
In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide,
a special event was held at Ararat Home in Mission Hills on Thursday, March
12, 2015, presided by leaders and clergy of the Armenian Apostolic,
Catholic, and Evangelical Churches, and with the participation of residents.
The commemoration began with requiem service at the Sheen Chapel
conducted by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, H.E. Archbishop
Hovnan Derderian, Primate, Very Rev. Fr. Armenag Bedrossian represented H.G.
Bishop Mikayel Mouradian, and Rev. Joe Matossian. At the conclusion of the
service, a moment of silence was observed for our martyrs and a prayer was
offered near where the remains of Armenian Genocide victims rest.
The commemoration continued in the courtyard with the unveiling of
the new Genocide memorial monument by the Nalbandian family and the blessing
by clergy. Assisted Living Facility residents planted trees near the
monument in a touching symbol of the rebirth of the Armenian nation.
A reception hosted by the board and administration followed, during
which guests enjoyed a musical performance by Salpy and Sossy Kerkonian on
the harp and flute.
***
PRELATE PRESIDES OVER MID-LENT CELEBRATION
AT HOLY CROSS CATHEDRAL IN MONTEBELLO
Wednesday, March 11, 2015, marked the midpoint of Lent. The occasion
was observed in Prelacy churches with Sunrise Service followed by luncheons
in various parishes. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate,
presided over festivities at Holy Cross Cathedral in Montebello.
The Prelate first presided over Sunrise Service, in which Holy Cross
Cathedral Dean Very Rev. Fr. Muron Aznikian and Pastor Rev. Fr. Ashod
Kambourian participated. Prelacy and parish Ladies Auxiliary members and
Mesrobian School Principal David Ghoogasian and high school students
attended the service. His Eminence delivered the meditation on Ephesians
4:23-24, an exhortation on being renewed in spirit, to "put on the new man
which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness" by
shunning lying, speaking the truth, living a virtuous life, and praying for
the Lord to "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I
shall be whiter than snow" (Psalm 51:7).
Great Lent is a time to cleanse ourselves physically and
spiritually, to examine and renew ourselves so that we are prepared to
welcome the Risen Christ. Mid-Lent is an opportunity to reflect on our
progress in the last three and a half weeks and focus on observing the
second half of Lent with deeper faith and uplifted spirits so that we are
worthy of receiving the Lord's forgiveness, stated the Prelate. Addressing
the students, His Eminence noted that though they might not keep Lent
traditionally, observing the spirit of Lent is as important.
The annual mid-Lent luncheon organized by the parish Ladies Guild
followed at "Bagramian" Hall. Montebello Mayor Jack Hadjinian and Holy Cross
Board members participated in the joyous event. Mesrobian School students
added to the festive atmosphere with a few musical selections.
In his address, the Prelate commended the Ladies Guild for their
efforts and the students for their participation, and once again reminded
all of their responsibilities as Christian faithful during Lent and beyond.
***
PRELATE PARTICIPATES IN
ORIENTAL ORTHODOX BISHOPS MEETING
On Tuesday, March 10, 2015, the meeting of the Council of Oriental
Orthodox Bishops was held at St. Mary and St. Athanasius Coptic Orthodox
Church in Northridge, hosted by H.G. Bishop Serapion. The Council is
comprised of leaders and clergy representatives from the Armenian, Coptic,
and Syriac Orthodox Churches. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, participated in the meeting, accompanied by Rev. Fr. Karekin
Bedourian and Rev. Fr. Ghevont Kirazian.
The meeting began with deliberations on the dire situation of
Christians in the Middle East. The members once again conveyed their
condolences to Bishop Serapion on the killing of 21 Coptic Christians by the
Islamic State in February. The martyrs were later canonized by the Coptic
Church.
The Council discussed commemorative events planned for the 100th
anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, which include ecumenical services and
various commemorations. The Syriac Orthodox Church will also be
commemorating the 100th anniversary of the genocide of Assyrians committed
by the Ottoman Empire.
Members also discussed current and proposed collaborative efforts,
including clergy gatherings, youth group and Sunday School activities, and
related matters.
***
ARMENIAN CULTURAL FOUNDATION ANNUAL BANQUET
On Sunday, March 8, the Prelate attended and delivered the
invocation at the annual banquet of the Armenian Cultural Foundation, held
at the Langham Huntington in Pasadena. Executive Council members were also
in attendance.
His Eminence congratulated the achievements of the ACF in the past
year and wished them continued successes in this historically significant
year, stressing that on the eve of the Armenian Genocide centennial, more
than ever we must join hands with the ACF and work in unison to reclaim at
last that which is rightfully ours. The Prelate commended the members of the
ACF for their tireless efforts in defense of our national identity and in
pursuit of our national rights, and the sponsors for their enduring support
and generosity, and prayed for all to work together with harmony, and in the
spirit of brotherhood, toward our common cause.
During the event, Mr. and Mrs. Garo and Alice Gureghian, members of
Holy Trinity Church in Fresno, were honored by the ACF for their service and
commitment to the cause.
***
ANCA-WR "AMERICA WE THANK YOU" EXHIBIT
OPENS AT LOS ANGELES PUBLIC LIBRARY
The ANCA-WR "America We Thank You" Committee has organized a
traveling exhibit titled "They Shall Not Perish: The Story of Near East
Relief," paying tribute to the humanitarian efforts of the Near East Relief
during and in the years after the Armenian Genocide, from 1915-1930. The
opening reception was held at the Los Angeles Public Library on the evening
of Friday, March 6, co-sponsored by L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti and
Councilmember Paul Krekorian. Rev. Fr. Boghos Tinkjian represented the
Prelate.
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: www.westernprelacy.org
EPISCOPAL DIVINE LITURGY AND BLESSING OF MADAGH ON THE NAME DAY OF FORTY
MARTYRS CHURCH IN ORANGE COUNTY
Sunday, March 15 is the fifth Sunday of Lent, known as Sunday of the
Judge. Saturday, March 14, is the Feast of the Forty Martyrs, which is also
the name day celebration of Forty Martyrs Church in Orange County. On this
occasion, on Sunday, March 15, 2015, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, will celebrate Divine Liturgy, deliver the sermon, and conduct the
blessing of madagh, at Forty Martyrs Church.
The feast commemorates the unwavering faith and martyrdom of the
forty brave soldiers of Sepastia who rejected the Roman Emperor's order to
return to the pagan faith and courageously and boldly proclaimed their
allegiance to the Christian faith. As a result, they endured an agonizing
death in a freezing lake, yet never wavered in their faith. It is a timely
message for the present day as Christians in certain parts of the world are
again being subjected to persecution and death for their faith.
***
SPECIAL EVENING HONORING
RENOWNED COMPOSER DIKRAN MANSOURIAN
On the evening of Thursday, March 19, a special event will be held
at the Prelacy "Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian" Hall honoring renowned
composer Dikran Mansourian. The Prelate will preside over the event, which
is organized by the Prelacy Cultural-Educational Committee.
The program features a presentation by Takouhi Arzoumanian, remarks
by LARK Musical Society Director Vatsche Barsoumian, and a cultural
performance. A reception will follow. The program begins at 7:00 p.m.
***
CHAMLIAN GRADUATING CLASS VISITS THE PRELACY
In accordance with a tradition established years ago, on the morning
of Friday, March 13, 2015, the graduation class of Vahan and Anoush Chamlian
School visited the Prelacy to receive the blessings of H.E. Archbishop
Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, prior to their class trip to Armenia and
graduation. The forty-two students were accompanied by Principal Dr. Talin
Kargodorian, Vice-Principal Mrs. Rita Kaprielian, teachers and parents.
Joining the Prelate were Rev. Fr. Boghos Tinkjian and Archpriest Fr. Nareg
Pehlivanian.
Upon their arrival, the students first entered the "St. Dertad and
St. Ashkhen" Chapel to kiss the Bible, after which they headed to the
"Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian" Hall where they presented a program of
songs, dance, and recitations.
The Prelate welcomed and commended the students for their touching
presentations. His Eminence noted that their upcoming trip to Armenia is all
the more meaningful this year as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of
the Genocide, and also explained the canonization ceremony that will be
conducted in Etchmiadzin on April 23rd.
The Prelate also spoke to the students about the meaning and purpose
of Lent, explaining that it is a time for spiritual renewal, fortification,
and cleansing, and in conclusion urged the youth to heed the commandments of
our Lord, to be obedient, studious, and to keep from wrongdoing.
The visit came to a close with "Cilicia" and the Armenian national
anthem. Prior to their return to school, the students were given Genocide
Centennial commemorative posters by the Prelate.
***
MEMORIAL SERVICE AND UNVEILING OF GENOCIDE MONUMENT AT ARARAT HOME
In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide,
a special event was held at Ararat Home in Mission Hills on Thursday, March
12, 2015, presided by leaders and clergy of the Armenian Apostolic,
Catholic, and Evangelical Churches, and with the participation of residents.
The commemoration began with requiem service at the Sheen Chapel
conducted by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, H.E. Archbishop
Hovnan Derderian, Primate, Very Rev. Fr. Armenag Bedrossian represented H.G.
Bishop Mikayel Mouradian, and Rev. Joe Matossian. At the conclusion of the
service, a moment of silence was observed for our martyrs and a prayer was
offered near where the remains of Armenian Genocide victims rest.
The commemoration continued in the courtyard with the unveiling of
the new Genocide memorial monument by the Nalbandian family and the blessing
by clergy. Assisted Living Facility residents planted trees near the
monument in a touching symbol of the rebirth of the Armenian nation.
A reception hosted by the board and administration followed, during
which guests enjoyed a musical performance by Salpy and Sossy Kerkonian on
the harp and flute.
***
PRELATE PRESIDES OVER MID-LENT CELEBRATION
AT HOLY CROSS CATHEDRAL IN MONTEBELLO
Wednesday, March 11, 2015, marked the midpoint of Lent. The occasion
was observed in Prelacy churches with Sunrise Service followed by luncheons
in various parishes. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate,
presided over festivities at Holy Cross Cathedral in Montebello.
The Prelate first presided over Sunrise Service, in which Holy Cross
Cathedral Dean Very Rev. Fr. Muron Aznikian and Pastor Rev. Fr. Ashod
Kambourian participated. Prelacy and parish Ladies Auxiliary members and
Mesrobian School Principal David Ghoogasian and high school students
attended the service. His Eminence delivered the meditation on Ephesians
4:23-24, an exhortation on being renewed in spirit, to "put on the new man
which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness" by
shunning lying, speaking the truth, living a virtuous life, and praying for
the Lord to "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I
shall be whiter than snow" (Psalm 51:7).
Great Lent is a time to cleanse ourselves physically and
spiritually, to examine and renew ourselves so that we are prepared to
welcome the Risen Christ. Mid-Lent is an opportunity to reflect on our
progress in the last three and a half weeks and focus on observing the
second half of Lent with deeper faith and uplifted spirits so that we are
worthy of receiving the Lord's forgiveness, stated the Prelate. Addressing
the students, His Eminence noted that though they might not keep Lent
traditionally, observing the spirit of Lent is as important.
The annual mid-Lent luncheon organized by the parish Ladies Guild
followed at "Bagramian" Hall. Montebello Mayor Jack Hadjinian and Holy Cross
Board members participated in the joyous event. Mesrobian School students
added to the festive atmosphere with a few musical selections.
In his address, the Prelate commended the Ladies Guild for their
efforts and the students for their participation, and once again reminded
all of their responsibilities as Christian faithful during Lent and beyond.
***
PRELATE PARTICIPATES IN
ORIENTAL ORTHODOX BISHOPS MEETING
On Tuesday, March 10, 2015, the meeting of the Council of Oriental
Orthodox Bishops was held at St. Mary and St. Athanasius Coptic Orthodox
Church in Northridge, hosted by H.G. Bishop Serapion. The Council is
comprised of leaders and clergy representatives from the Armenian, Coptic,
and Syriac Orthodox Churches. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, participated in the meeting, accompanied by Rev. Fr. Karekin
Bedourian and Rev. Fr. Ghevont Kirazian.
The meeting began with deliberations on the dire situation of
Christians in the Middle East. The members once again conveyed their
condolences to Bishop Serapion on the killing of 21 Coptic Christians by the
Islamic State in February. The martyrs were later canonized by the Coptic
Church.
The Council discussed commemorative events planned for the 100th
anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, which include ecumenical services and
various commemorations. The Syriac Orthodox Church will also be
commemorating the 100th anniversary of the genocide of Assyrians committed
by the Ottoman Empire.
Members also discussed current and proposed collaborative efforts,
including clergy gatherings, youth group and Sunday School activities, and
related matters.
***
ARMENIAN CULTURAL FOUNDATION ANNUAL BANQUET
On Sunday, March 8, the Prelate attended and delivered the
invocation at the annual banquet of the Armenian Cultural Foundation, held
at the Langham Huntington in Pasadena. Executive Council members were also
in attendance.
His Eminence congratulated the achievements of the ACF in the past
year and wished them continued successes in this historically significant
year, stressing that on the eve of the Armenian Genocide centennial, more
than ever we must join hands with the ACF and work in unison to reclaim at
last that which is rightfully ours. The Prelate commended the members of the
ACF for their tireless efforts in defense of our national identity and in
pursuit of our national rights, and the sponsors for their enduring support
and generosity, and prayed for all to work together with harmony, and in the
spirit of brotherhood, toward our common cause.
During the event, Mr. and Mrs. Garo and Alice Gureghian, members of
Holy Trinity Church in Fresno, were honored by the ACF for their service and
commitment to the cause.
***
ANCA-WR "AMERICA WE THANK YOU" EXHIBIT
OPENS AT LOS ANGELES PUBLIC LIBRARY
The ANCA-WR "America We Thank You" Committee has organized a
traveling exhibit titled "They Shall Not Perish: The Story of Near East
Relief," paying tribute to the humanitarian efforts of the Near East Relief
during and in the years after the Armenian Genocide, from 1915-1930. The
opening reception was held at the Los Angeles Public Library on the evening
of Friday, March 6, co-sponsored by L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti and
Councilmember Paul Krekorian. Rev. Fr. Boghos Tinkjian represented the
Prelate.