A Milestone In The Life Of A Priest: St. Gregory The Illuminator Armenian Church Of Pasadena Celebrates Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan'S 20Th Anniversary Of Ordination And Consecration

St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church of Pasadena held a grandiose celebration on Sunday, September 9, 2018 to honor Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan’s 20^th anniversary of ordination and consecration into the sacred order of the priesthood. More than 600 faithful filled the sanctuary of the parish on the auspicious occasion. With the Diocesan Primate presiding over the service, the service was also attended by Archpriest Fr. Datev Tatoulian, Archpriest Fr. Kevork Arakelian, the Rev. Fr. Dr. Stepanos Dingilian, and the Rev. Fr. Vazken Movsesian.

In attendance with his spouse Karine, Diocesan Council Chairman Joseph Kanimian, Esq. representing the Diocesan Council.

The day’s celebrant and homilist was the honoree himself who was introduced to the congregation by His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate. In his remarks, Archbishop Derderian reflected on the ministry of Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan. “ ‘As a good and faithful servant’ and a ‘brave shepherd,’ you have remained true and loyal to carrying out the mission of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Through your life’s example, you are amongst the ‘chosen’ in the vineyard of God,” stated the Primate. His Eminence also noted Fr. Sarkis Petoyan’s dedication in leading the flock of Christ to righteousness. “We commend your unwavering service rendered to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the Armenian Apostolic Church and Christ’s flock. We pray for your health and ask the Almighty God to grant you and your loved ones long and healthy lives.”  

The Primate also recognized Yeretsgin Talin Petoyan, presented her an icon of the Holy Mother of God and called her a true partner in the priest’s pastoral mission. Archbishop Derderian called Grace Shnorhig, the daughter of Fr. Sarkis and Yeretsgin Talin, the joy of their lives and presented her a cross.

The Primate also informed the priest and the congregation that a cross-stone, in recognition of Fr. Sarkis Petoyan’s committed service to the Armenian Apostolic Church, will be mounted on the wall of St. Leon (Srbots Ghevontiants) Armenian Cathedral.     

With over 500 in attendance, a banquet in honor of Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan was held in the Geragos Hall following the service.