The Diocese
Posted: 12/17/2021
While the Christmas season is a time of merriment for most people, it is also a difficult season for those who have suffered loss, especially if that loss is that of a child.
On December 13, the annual Children's Memorial was held at the St. Leon Ghevondyants Armenian Cathedral. A group assembled in a candle-light vigil on the Turpanjian Plaza. They spoke, cried, shared and looked to the hope that comes from faith, as they remembered their children.
Maria Hamparian, organizer of the event, spoke on behalf of all parents. The evening bears the name of her daughter Cathia Hamparian who passed away 25 years ago. Since that time, the invitation has gone out on the second Sunday of December, to share the life and memory of children who have passed on. Speaking of her and her family's experience, Maria says, "Family support was so helpful ... we didn’t believe we would survive this unimaginable grief, this void in every breath we took… But we did, by the grace of God. We survived and we are testimony of the miracle of love, endurance, faith, hope to go on." In turn, the Children's Memorial is an opportunity for families to remember, share and find strength in Christian community.
His Eminence, Archbishop Hovnan, in his comments and prayer that evening, pointed to the Christmas season and the promise that comes with the Nativity of Jesus Christ. Here, the healing power of God can be felt. He extended himself and his compassion for the families and friends of these children, offering blessings of the Holy Church.
The evening event is one of the many outreach programs of the In His Shoes Ministry. To learn more and receive information about the Children's Memorial and future events contact Maria Hamparian and ForCathia@aol.com.
