The Diocese
Posted: 01/17/2025
On Sunday, January 12, 2025, the faithful of St. Garabed Armenian Church of the Desert gathered with joy and reverence to celebrate the 13th anniversary of the Church’s consecration. This milestone was made even more momentous by the presence of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church, who served as the celebrant and homilist. The congregation warmly welcomed Archbishop Derderian, expressing their heartfelt gratitude for his continued fatherly care, visionary leadership, and unwavering guidance. Following the Divine Liturgy, a celebratory banquet was organized by the Parish Council. During the banquet, Archbishop Derderian commended the collective efforts of the Church’s leadership and community, recognizing their faithfulness, dedication, and devotion to advancing the mission of St. Garabed Church.
This joyous occasion also marked a monumental milestone: the full repayment of our Church’s mortgage. This remarkable achievement was not merely a financial accomplishment but a testament to the unwavering faith, generosity, and deep commitment of our parishioners to their spiritual home. Archbishop Hovnan Derderian expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all benefactors and sponsors whose generous support and contributions made this vision into reality.
Vartan Nazerian, Chairperson of the Diocesan and St. Garabed Parish Councils, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone whose generous donations and sacrifices made this remarkable achievement possible. He also extended his sincere thanks to the members of the Parish Council and the Ladies’ Society for their dedication and tireless hard work. Their steadfast support and love for St. Garabed Church have truly transformed this vision into reality, ensuring a strong and enduring foundation for generations to come.
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian introduced Dr. Hratch Tchilingirian, a renowned scholar and leader who was appointed as the Director of Institutional Innovation. Dr. Tchilingirian addressed parishioners and guests, presenting a groundbreaking innovation that sets new standards of excellence for the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church and our community. His vision and leadership promise to inspire transformative growth and progress within the Diocese, strengthening its mission and impact for future generations.
Rev. Dn. Gevork Gevorkian, Pastor of St. Garabed Church, reflected on the profound significance of its consecration of St. Garabed Church, emphasizing that it represents far more than the transformation of a physical space. He highlighted that it is a call to the transformation of our hearts, relationships, and understanding of God and ourselves. Deacon Gevork described this moment as an invitation to turn to the Lord Jesus with renewed faith, open our hearts, and allow Him to transform us into living stones, building a spiritual foundation firmly rooted in His love and grace.
One of the evening’s most cherished moments was the presentation of the prestigious Hye Spirit Award to Anoush Avakian, Shakeh Bazerkanian, Hasmik Arakelian, and Medick Yarijanian by His Eminence Archbishop Derderian. These outstanding individuals were celebrated for their exemplary service, unwavering dedication, and heartfelt love for the church and its community. Their tireless efforts and contributions have profoundly enriched the life of St. Garabed Church, serving as an enduring example of faith, commitment, and unity for all.
In the artistic portion of the program, Dn. David Gevorkian performed a Gomidas song on the traditional Armenian wind instrument, the duduk, captivating the audience with its soulful and evocative melodies. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dn. David for sharing his talent and enriching the event with this beautiful performance.
The Primate’s visit, filled with blessings, encouragement, and spiritual enrichment, will forever hold a cherished place in the hearts of St. Garabed’s faithful. Together, we continue to draw strength and inspiration from the love and unity that define our church community as we carry forward the legacy of faith entrusted to us. Thank you all for being a part of this very special occasion.
