Celebrating 35 Years Of A Dream And Vision

On Sunday, September 24, by the arrangement of Archbishop Hovnan Dederian the 35^th Anniversary of Ordination of Fr. Vazken Movsesian was celebrated at the St. James Armenian Church in Los Angeles. It was there, in the same sanctuary that in September of 1982 Fr. Vazken took his vows and was ordained into the priesthood. At the invitation of the St. James Parish Priest, Fr. Haroutiun Tachejian, the choir and deacons served in a colorful expression of praise with Fr. Vazken celebrating the Divine Liturgy and offering the day’s sermon. During the service a congratulatory message from the Diocesan Primate, Abp. Derderian was read, wherein His Eminence reflected on the nature of the priesthood and Fr. Vazken’s journey through the ministry.

Very special to the festivities of the day was the presence of Archbishop Vatché Hovsepian, who was the ordinant bishop 35 years ago, and Fr. Arshag Khatchadourian who sponsored Fr. Vazken into the priesthood.

Friends and family traveled distances to be at the anniversary celebration. Following the Liturgy, the St. James Parish Council and Ladies Society served a luncheon in the church’s Gogian Hall. There, Fr. Tachejian shared some heartfelt comments. He invited three speakers to reflect on Fr. Vazken’s ordination and ministry. Dr. Deacon Hrair Dekmejian, USC professor, long-time parishioner and mentor to Fr. Vazken, reflected on the nature and development of the ministry. Next, Professor Osheen Keshishian, Editor of the Armenian Observer and Professor at GCC reflected on the formative year in Fr. Vazken’s life and the challenges to the ministry in America. In conclusion, Archbishop Hovsepian brought to focus the nature and calling of Christian ministry with vivid scriptural citations.

As a surprise gesture, Parish Council Chairlady Lily Ring Balian presented Fr. Vazken & Yn. Susan a Michael Aram, signed sculpture “Peace Dove” as a gift from the St. James community. It was a most appropriate gift for a ministry that has brought the message of hope and love for the causes of peace and justice. Together, Fr. Vazken and Yn. Susan thanked the clergy, the Parish Council and the guests for their attendance, heartfelt sentiments and prayers. The day began with a very inspirational and spiritually uplifting service and was followed by a very warm reception that reflected the love and devotion of the St. James community to the Armenian Church.