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89th Annual Diocesan Assembly Convenes

The 89th Annual Assembly of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America convened on Friday, May 6, 2016 at the Armenian Church of Las Vegas. The year’s biggest convention was presided by His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Diocesan Primate. This year’s Diocesan Assembly Officers were Hon. Judge Adrienne Krikorian (Chairlady), Richard Mushegain, Esq., (Vice-Chairman), and Mrs. Suzie Grigorians (Recording Secretary).

In her welcoming remarks, Judge Krikorian extended her gratitude to the Primate for his enduring leadership as well as pastoral support and guidance. The Diocesan Assembly Chair proudly announced to the delegates that the Assembly would be followed by the consecration of the Armenian Apostolic Church of Las Vegas. The Armenian and English translation of the Pontifical Message of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians were read by the Rev. Fr. Nerses Hayrapetyan and the Rev. Fr. Mesrop Ash, respectively.
Addressing the reverend clergy, the Diocesan delegates and the entire faithful, His Holiness wrote in part ” It brings us great spiritual joy to know that year after year the church-building mission in addition to other significant successful projects continue to expand at the Western Diocese. You have captured the essence of the Christian spirit by bringing to life our ancestral Christian Faith which is deeply enrooted in your hearts. Through your noble endeavors and continued dedication, you continue to bring prosperity to the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church and to the Armenian nation. Through the Primate we are continually informed about the recorded collective accomplishments of the reverend clergy along with the laity as well as the plans you have envisioned for the future.”
PONTIFICAL MESSAGE (ENGLISH)
ՎԵՀԱՓԱՌ ՀԱՅՐԱՊԵՏԻՆ ՊԱՏԳԱՄԸ (ՀԱՅԵՐԵՆ)
Prior to delivering his report, the Primate reminded the delegates about the fulfillment of the mission of the Western Diocese which is conditioned by adhering to the teachings and practices of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the sacred traditions of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Referencing to the vivacity of the Church, the Primate stated “The livelihood of the Church is conditioned by the collective noble deeds of the reverend clergy and laity.” Archbishop Derderian reflected on the history of the Western Diocese, its present activities and upcoming future events which will include a grandiose celebration of the 90th anniversary of the Western Diocese in 2017 and the Pontifical Visit of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians in October of the upcoming year.
Prior to delivering his report, the Primate reminded the delegates about the fulfillment of the mission of the Western Diocese which is conditioned by adhering to the teachings and practices of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the sacred traditions of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Referencing to the vivacity of the Church, the Primate stated “The livelihood of the Church is conditioned by the collective noble deeds of the reverend clergy and laity.” Archbishop Derderian reflected on the history of the Western Diocese, its present activities and upcoming future events which will include a grandiose celebration of the 90th anniversary of the Western Diocese in 2017 and the Pontifical Visit of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians in October of the upcoming year.

VIDEO PRESENTATION 

The Primate’s reflected on the past year’s activities which included the Centennial Commemoration of the Armenian Genocide, an overview of Diocesan missions and projects, pastoral visitations, church construction and humanitarian projects, the most recent of which was the establishment of the Humanitarian Fund for Artsakh. To this day, nearly $500,000 has been transferred to the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin to be allocated to the families of soldiers and civilians who passed away or have been severely wounded as a result of the military aggression by the Azeris last April.

PRIMATE’S REPORT
Archbishop Derderian expressed his gratitude to the Catholicos of All Armenians, the Diocesan Council Chairman Joseph Kanimian, Esq., the Diocesan staff under the leadership of Executive Director Dn. Harout Markarian, for their unrelenting dedication and commitment to the mission of the Western Diocese and to Mr. Karen Setanyan, the Chairman of the Parish Council for graciously hosting this year’s Assembly.

In his closing remarks, Archbishop Derderian also spoke about fulfilling the mission of the Diocese by becoming the living Gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and by bringing peace in the life of the Church.

PRIMATE’S CLOSING REMARKS
The delegates heard reports from the Diocesan Council Chairman Joseph Kanimian, Esq., the Diocesan Council Treasurer Derek Ghookasian, the Endowment Fund Vice-Chairman Mr. Armen Hampar and Ladies Auxiliary Chairlady Mrs. Cindy Norian, Camp Board Chairman Mr. Kevork Zorian and “Mer Hooys” Board President the Honorable Judge Adrienne Krikorian. Also present at the Diocesan Assembly were members of the Armenian Bone Marrow Donor Registry.
ELECTIONS 
Primate Receives Vote of Confidence by an Overwhelming Majority

 

In accordance with the By Laws of the Western Diocese, at the end of the sixth year of Primacy, the Primate must obtain a 2/3 vote of confidence at the Annual Assembly in order to guarantee the continuation of his Primacy for a period of seven years. Otherwise, an election must be held.

At the 89th Annual Diocesan Assembly, the Diocesan delegates cast their ballots for the Vote of Confidence. His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian received an overwhelming majority of the vote in favor of the continuation of his Primacy.

Immediately after the results of the vote were announced, the Primate made the following statement to the delegates. “I praise the Almighty God for the graces bestowed upon me, a servant of the Armenian Apostolic Church in order that I may serve the flock of Christ with a renewed spirit, love and wisdom.”

The results of the have been communicated to the Catholicos of All Armenians.

Other elections were held for the positions of diocesan assembly officers, Diocesan Council members, Auditing Committee members and Endowment Fund Board. The elections yielded the following results:

ELECTION RESULTS
First Meeting of the 2016-2017 Diocesan Council

Under the presidency of the Primate, the newly elected members of the Diocesan Council convened immediately following the Assembly. Internal elections were held for the positions of Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer and Secretary yielding the following results:

Joseph Kanimian, Esq. – Chairman – St. Leon Armenian Cathedral, Burbank
Mr. Vahe Skenderian – Vice Chairman – St. Gregory the Illuminator Arm. Church in Pasadena
Dr. Kris Mirzayan – Treasurer – St. Mary Arm. Church in Costa Mesa, California
Mr. Derik Ghookasian – Secretary – St. Peter Arm. Church in Van Nuys, California

Diocesan Council Members:

Mr. Greg Tcherkoyan –St. Vartan Arm. Church in Oakland, California
Mr. Berj Manoogian – St. Apkar Armenian Church in Scottsdale, Arizona                       
Mr. Mher Sharyan – St. Kevork Arm. Church in Portland, Oregon
Arsen Danielian, Esq. – St. Leon Armenian Cathedral, Burbank
Deacon Steve Adams – St. Paul Armenian Church, Fresno
Mr. Barkev Hamalian – St. Peter Armenian Church, Van Nuys
Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian – Pastor of the Armenian Church of Crescenta Valley
Rev. Fr. Nerses Hayrapetyan – Pastor of St. Sarkis Armenian Church in Santa Clarita
Rev. Fr. Mesrop Ash – Pastor of St. John Armenian Church in San Francisco
Rev. Fr. Serovbe Alanjian – Pastor of the Armenian Church of Ventura County
Rev. Fr. Khajag Shahbazan – Pastor of St. Leon Armenian Cathedral in Burbank
 

Consecration of St. Geragos Armenian Church in Las Vegas
The long-awaited consecration of the Armenian Church of Las Vegas was held on Friday, May 6, 2016 following the 89th Annual Diocesan Assembly. His Eminence presided over the ceremony with the participation of Diocesan clergy, Deacons, Choir and hundreds of faithful in attendance. In officiating the ceremony, Archbishop Derderian consecrated the 16 cross-stones placed on the columns of the Church as well as the Holy Altar.
The Grand Benefactor of St. Geragos Armenian Church is renowned Attorney Mark Geragos.

The Godfathers are Edmond Patvakanyan, Gagik Sekoyan, George Gregory Megueriann, Haik Atamyan, Hovsep Shadarevian, Joseph Djavairian, Kevin Setanyan, Levon Akhshuramov, Mesrop Khachikyan, Mihran Furnchyan, Rouben Grigoryan, Rouzanna Grigorian, Shavarsh Papazian, Stepan Gevorgyants, Vahag Stepanyan and Vigen Kirakosyan.

In his homily Archbishop Derderian quoted from the words of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ from the Gospel according to St. Matthew (Matt. 7:24-25). “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.

The Primate noted the essential role of the Church in establishing a close relationship with God and strengthening one’s spirituality. “The Church is the House of God and the Body of Christ. Within the blessed walls you establish an unbreakable bond with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” said His Eminence in part.

The Primate expressed his gratitude to Mr. Kaaren Khoudikian, the architect of the church complex and Mr. George Boghos, the building contractor for their role in the completion of St. Geragos Armenian Church. Archbishop Derderian also recognized Archpriest Fr. Nareg Matarian’s pastoral service and contribution to the Armenian-American community of Las Vegas by naming the clergyman an Honorary Godfather of St. Geragos Armenian Church. The Executive Director of the Western Diocese Dn. Harout Markarian was also named as an Honorary Godfather for his supporting role in the construction efforts throughout the years. Archbishop Derderian expressed his wholehearted gratitude to the Grand Benefactor Attorney Mark Geragos, to the Godfathers and to all faithful for fulfilling a dream of the Armenian-American community of Las Vegas.

St. Geragos Armenian Church of Las Vegas is located at 6820 Ponderosa Way, Las Vegas, NV 89118.

Banquet
The consecration ceremony was followed by a gala banquet at St. Michael Banquet Hall.

The Mistress of Ceremonies was Miss Lena Hovanessian. Heartfelt remarks were made by Honorary Consul Andy Armenian, the Grand Benefactor of St. Geragos Armenian Church Attorney Mark Geragos, Diocesan Council Chairman Joseph Kanimian, Esq. and Parish Council Chairman of St. Geragos Armenian Church Kevin Setanyan.

In his remarks, the Diocesan Council Chairman Joseph Kanimian stated “I would like to congratulate our dearest Primate on the joyous occasion of his reelection. Good deeds never get unnoticed.   The delegates of the Assembly overwhelmingly gave their approval to our leader.   Our gratitude to the delegates for their commitment to the welfare of our/their Diocese.

My gratitude to you all for your confidence in me as your chairman.  I am humbled by your support and encouragement.

Congratulations to the reelected Council members and the executive body of the Council for accepting the responsibilities bestowed upon them.

My gratitude to the Assembly Chairlady Hon. Judge Adrienne Krikorian and the Assembly Officers for running an excellent and efficient yet challenging 89th Assembly of the Western Diocese.

Our gratitude to our Executive Director Harout Markarian for his hard work and dedication.

Congratulations to the St. Geragos Armenian Apostolic Church Parish Priest, Council, Parishioners and Benefactors for their achievement in erecting our latest addition to the Western Diocese.

Our task to unite and serve all our parishes and parishioners for the common goal of serving our Lord, our Diocese, Holy Etchmiadzin and our Sacred Armenian Apostolic Church is a noble one.  We shall work together toward that objective with full commitment and vigor.

May the Almighty always Bless and Protect our Church and our Supreme Spiritual Leader His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians.”

 
First Episcopal Divine Liturgy at the Newly Consecrated St. Geragos Armenian Church
On Sunday, May 8, 2016, the Diocesan Primate celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the newly consecrated St. Geragos Armenian Church. During the service, Archbishop Derderian officially introduced the Very Rev. Fr. Sasoon Dz. V. Zumrookhdian to the faithful community. Father Sasoon was appointed by the Primate as Pastor of the Las Vegas effective May 1, 2016. Archbishop Hovnan Derderian was assisted at the Holy Altar by the Rev. Fr. Yessai Bedros, the Rev. Fr. Avedis Abovian and Deacon Allan Yeghia Jendian. The Choir was directed by Archpriest Fr. Nareg Matarian. The Very Rev. Fr. Sasoon Dz. V. Zumrookhdian and Archpriest Fr. Datev Harutyunian participated in the service.

During the service, His Eminence granted four minor orders of acolyte to Nersik Grigorian, and performed the blessing of the veils service of the choir members. Calling them to the nave, Archbishop Derderian also blessed the members of the Parish Council exhorting them to serve Christ, our Lord and the Armenian Apostolic Church with renewed dedication and zeal.

At the conclusion of the service, Archbishop Hovnan Derderian consecrated the baptismal font.

Blessing and Dedication of the Armenian Church of Las Vegas
The Blessing and Dedication (Navagadig/Trnpatsek) ceremony of the Armenian Church of Las Vegas was presided by Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian on May 5, 2016. Diocesan priests, clergy from various denominations and faith representatives looked on as the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, the Very Rev. Fr. Pakrad Berjekian, Archpriest Fr. Moushegh Tashjian, Archpriest Fr. Manoug Markarian, Archpriest Fr. Nareg Matarian and Archpriest Fr. Shnork Demirjian joined the Primate and the hundreds of faithful in the moving ceremony.
At 6 p.m., hundreds of faithful had gathered at the front entrance of the Parish awaiting the procession of the clergy. Archbishop Derderian led the procession to the main doors where the traditional Opening of the Doors (Trnpatsek) ceremony followed. Kneeling before the main entrance, the clergy performed the spiritually enriching ceremonial rite wherein they ask the Almighty to make them worthy of entering the House of God.
The clergy and the faithful entered the sanctuary where His Eminence blessed the Holy Altar. In his message the Primate said “We praise the All Benevolent God for blessing us with this glorious House of Worship. We thank all those who opened their hearts and extended a lending hand in making this dream a reality,” said Archbishop Derderian in his remarks. “We are delighted to witness the growth and the spiritual excitement of the Armenian American community of Las Vegas

Androushan Armenian, the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia in Las Vegas, clergy of various religious denominations and representatives of Armenian organizations were among the dignitaries in attendance.

At the conclusion of the dedication ceremony, the clergy led a procession to the main entrance in the church courtyard where Archbishop Derderian consecrated the cross-stones (khachkars) situated at the front entrance of the church. His Eminence blessed the benefactors of the cross-stones Mr. and Mrs. Sarkis and Zhanet Frunjyan for their generosity and selfless service to the Armenian Apostolic Church. The cross-stones were dedicated to Mrs. Zhanet Frunjyan and the couple’s son Mihran Frunjyan.

A festive celebration featuring live traditional Armenian music followed. As a testament to their rich culture and heritage, beautifully choreographed dances were performed by young Armenian children of various dance ensembles.

Primate Presides Over Clergy Conference and
64th Annual Ladies Society Assembly
The 64th Annual Ladies Assembly was held on Thursday, May 5, 2016 under the presidency of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America. Chaired by Ladies Society Central Council (LSCC) Chairlady Mrs. Lena Simonian, close to 45 Ladies Society delegates from parishes throughout the Western Diocese took part in the assembly at the newly consecrated St. Geragos Armenian Apostolic Church of Las Vegas.

Other LSCC members taking part in the Assembly included Melene Ouzounian, Aida Sethian, Aida Askejian, Arpi Barsam and Lillian Bezdikian.   The Ladies society delegates and parish priests convened to review the past year’s activities, discuss present issues and challenges, hold new elections, outline the vision of the Ladies Society, and prepare for upcoming challenges.

The Assembly opened with prayers and the spiritual message delivered by Very Rev. Fr. Pakrad Berjekian.  Fr. Pakrad spoke from the book of Romans, Chapter 12, Verses 5-8, which emphasizes the different gifts bestowed upon the faithful of Christ, and for each individual to use his or her God given gifts to form one Body of Christ, to serve the church, and the Motherland.  Our gifts include to prophesize, give, teach, encourage, and be merciful.
                                                    
The newly assigned pastor of St. Geragos Church, the Very Rev. Fr. Sasoon Dz. V. Zumrookhdian delivered his welcoming remarks to the Assembly.  He spoke about the example we are to set for the newly assembled church and its ladies society members by always leading Christ-centered lives and having the Church, the Body of Christ, as our protector and the friendship as our spirit of ethnicity.

Chairlady Lena Simonian welcomed the delegates with enthusiasm and love by sharing Peter 4: 8-11 which says: Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, and knowing that your labor is not in vain”. She said added “our feminine instinct, love, care and selflessness are the most tangible assets that we have to invest for the well-being of our people, and especially for the continuity and prosperity of our younger generation.

The highlights of the program included a power point presentation on the mission and certain by-laws of ladies society. As well as panel discussion on preparing and mending generational gap with family being reflection of Christian Community; Aida Sethian, former Chairlady of St. Gregory Church, Pasadena elaborated on formation, challenges & successes of Jr. Ladies Societies. Yn. Anahid Ohanian, St. Vartan Church, Oakland & Lillian Bezdikian, Chairlady of St. Andrew Church, Cupertino discussed on how to attract new young ladies. Darlene Chardukian, Chairlady of St. Paul Church, Fresno talked about her role as a young career ladies society in the life of her church.

LSCC chairlady who also serves as the Chair of the Religious Education Annual Retreat spoke about the mission and purpose of the retreat which is to gather in fellowship, to nourish the souls through the word of God and to reevaluate the course of personal lives through contemplation and solitude. She added on saying that his year’s retreat was a huge success where close to 100 parishioners joined.

Ladies Auxiliary Chair, Mrs. Cindy Norian talked about Debutante Ball as one of the biggest fundraisers of the committee and encouraged all churches to participate in this elegant event by recruiting debutantes and escorts.

Elections were held for 4 vacant positions. They were filled by Lena Simonian, Melene Ouzounian, Aida Sethian and Arpi Barsam as their second term since there were no new nominees.

In her closing remarks, Chairlady Lena said, “I learned these past 2 years as Central Council Chair to carry one another’s burdens; to put away things of the flesh (like jealousy, envy, hatred and divisions) and to put on the things of the spirit (like love, patience, kindness and humility). Also in order to mend generation gap, we have to push away personal egos and bring Christ in the center of relationships. When we practice putting other’s interest before our own, we learn what it means to love, serve and sacrifice.

The Assembly concluded with the closing remarks and spiritual message of the Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian.  His Eminence spoke about the vital role of the church in our spiritual lives and how the Body of Christ unites us just as it has done so for the past 1700 years. Furthermore, he noted that is our Christian duty and obligation as heirs of the Orthodox Apostolic Faith to pass on and instill in the hearts of the young generation our ancestral Christian Faith and the undying legacy of our forefathers. His Eminence also reflected on importance of our actions as means of bringing the children closer to the Church. The high ranking clergyman spoke of the brave soldiers recently sacrificed for the Motherland and the blood of the martyrs 100 years ago are part of the life of the church today.  On the occasion of Mother’s Day, we are all reminded of our mother’s past service and dedication to the church and how it has shaped us and inspired us to give and share our talents, gifts, and service to our churches today.

Clergy Conference 
The Ladies Society Assembly was followed by the clergy conference in the afternoon. Presided by the Primate, a number of topics including the current situation in Artsakh and Armenia, parish fundraising involvement in the Humanitarian Fund for Artsakh, the upcoming 90th anniversary of the Western Diocese in 2017 and the Pontifical Visit of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, the publication of the 90th anniversary booklet and an ecumenical event presided by the Head of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
Khenteer Tajirian Educational Center Dedicated
On May 7, 2016, the Primate presided over the dedication of the Khenteer Tajirian Educational Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mr. John Tajirian, the benefactor of the Educational Center was present at the ceremonial event with his brother Ramses Tajirian. Diocesan Council Chairman Joseph Kanimian, Esq., Chairlady of the Saturday School Executive Committee Dr. Ellie Antreassian, the newly appointed pastor of St. Geragos Armenian Church the Very Rev. Fr. Sasoon Dz. V. Zumrookhdian, the former pastor of the Las Vegas Parish Archpriest Fr. Nareg Matarian, along with school faculty and students participated in the service.
His Eminence performed the traditional Home Blessing service as he blessed bread, water and salt asking in his prayers from the Omnipotent God not to lessen these three gifts without which life becomes impossible or imperfect. Archbishop Derderian commended the benefactor for his selfless service conveying words of gratitude to Mr. Tajirian for his unwavering support of the mission of the Armenian Apostolic Church throughout the years.

The ceremonial event also included performances by the Saturday School students. Archbishop Derderian commended the students and their parents for preserving the Armenian identity and upholding the sacred traditions of an Armenian Christian household.

The Primate gladly announced that the Saturday School will be renamed after Seta Tajirian, the mother of the educational center’s benefactor and will be called the “Seta Tajirian Saturday School” of St. Geragos Armenian Church of Las Vegas.          

The Khenteer Educational Center which is located adjacent to St. Geragos Armenian Church in Las Vegas is home to nearly 70 Saturday School students.

Primate Consecrates Bell Tower Crosses of the Armenian Church of Las Vegas
Shortly after his arrival to the City of Las Vegas on Wednesday, May 4, the Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian with the participation of the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian and Archpriest Fr. Nareg Matarian presided over the consecration ceremony of the bell tower crosses. His Eminence commended the Christian spirit of the benefactors Mr and Mrs. Sarkis and Zhanet Frunjyan wishing them continued dedication in their service to the Armenian Apostolic Church. Following the ceremonial rite, the crosses were lifted up and placed on the respective domes.  
AGBU Marks 110th Anniversary 
The Armenian General Benevolent Union’s Western District celebrated AGBU’s 110th Anniversary on Sunday, May 1, 2016 at The Reef in Los Angeles. The event featured a Mixed Art Exhibit, History of Humanitarianism Timeline, and Live Performances. Ruben Vardanyan, one of the founders of the 100 Lives Project was the evening’s Marquee Speaker.

The Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian attended the Gala Event accompanied by Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan.

DIOCESE IN THE COMMUNITY
Archpriest Fr. Dr. Zaven Arzoumanian and Archpriest Fr. Arshag Khatchadourian Take Part in Dr. Hrant Ajemian’s Latest Book Presentation (Kinedzon)
(Article Courtesy of Nor Or Weekly)
The Very Rev. Fr. Pakrad Berjekian Represents the Primate at the
AAMS 30th Anniversary Gala
The Armenian American Medical Society celebrated its 30th anniversary with a gala banquet on Saturday, May 7, 2016 at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Glendale Adventist Medical Center, Dignity Health Glendale Memorial Hospital and Health and Haroutune K. Armenian MD, MPH, Dr.P.H. were honored by the AAMS for their years of dedicated service and tremendous contributions to medicine and mankind.

The Very Rev. Fr. Pakrad Berjekian attended the gala event on behalf of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, the Diocesan Primate. Delivering the benediction, Father Pakrad congratulated the organizers wishing the AAMS continued success in its noble humanitarian endeavors.

Proceeds from the AAMS gala benefited the health care needs of Syrian Armenian refugees.  

Feast of the Ascension of Christ 
In the Armenian Church calendar, the Feast of the Holy Ascension (Hampartzum) was observed on May 5, 2016. The feast marks the ascent of our Lord Jesus Christ into heaven on the 40th day after His glorious Resurrection.

The festivities commenced with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy at 10:30 a.m. at St. John Garabed Armenian Church in Hollywood. The day’s celebrant was the Very Rev. Fr. Pakrad Berjekian. With Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz Yardemian and clergy of the greater Los Angeles area participating, the service was presided by the Diocesan Primate Archbishop Hovnan Derderian.

The Divine Liturgy was followed by the 12th Annual Hampartzum Celebration at the Taglyan Cultural Center. More than 250 people attended the luncheon organized by the Hampartzum Committee of the Western Diocese.

The event’s program commenced with the welcoming remarks by Mrs. Arpi Barsam and Mrs. Belet Shahbazian. After the delivery of the invocation by Archpriest Fr. Manoug Markarian, Pastor of St. John Garabed Armenian Church, guests enjoyed the finest of Mediterranean cuisine. Mrs. Hermine Janoyan served as the Mistress of Ceremonies.

During the luncheon, guests enjoyed a video presentation of upbeat Armenian folkloric songs.

In his remarks, the Primate reflected on the significance of the Feast of the Ascension. “Through the Ascension of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we, as faithful are called upon to renew our covenant with God,” said the Primate, in part.  The Primate expressed his gratitude to Drs. Petros and Karine Taglyan for graciously hosting the luncheon throughout the years and for their continued generous support of the mission of the Western Diocese.

The day’s honoree, Mrs. Jessica Vartoughian was introduced by AIWA LA President Mrs. Silva Katchiguian. Archbishop Hovnan Derderian congratulated the honoree, noting the vast accomplishments of the entrepreneur in the field of cosmetics. In his remarks, His Eminence wished the honoree continued success in her entrepreneurial endeavors.       

The Primate commended the tireless efforts of the committee for another successful celebration of Hampartzum. His Eminence noted the selfless service of Arpi Barsam and Araxie Boyamian, Co-Chairs; and committee members: Hermine Janoyan Vice-Chair, Arlet Bijackji, Recording Secretary, Silva Kendirjian Treasurer, Ani Ajemian, Nazik Baktiarian, Alice Chakrian, Hermine Janoyan, Heidi Kavoukjian, Belet Shahbazian, and Leann Stepanian. 
The program featured solo and duet performances by Sergey and Ani Arustamyan as well as a traditional Armenian dance gracefully performed by Sara Shahgholian from Anoush Dance Studio.

Guests enjoyed reading the messages of the traditional “vijag”, and shopped from the many exquisite boutiques.

The event concluded with Archpriest Fr. Manoug Markarian’s benediction.

Proceeds from the event benefited the Stewardship Fund of the Western Diocese for Clergy Education.

Դասախոսություն “Հայոց լեզուն Սփյուռքի մեջ”
Մայիսի 3-ին, Բրբենկի Առաջնորդարանի “Զվարթնոց” Մշակութային Հանձնախումբը “Արմեն Համբար” սրահում կազմակերպել էր Դասախոսություն “Հայոց լեզուն Սփյուռքի մեջ” թեմայով։ Դասախոսն էր ՝ Դոկտ․ Պրոֆ․ Հակոբ Կյուլուջյանը, UCLA համալսարանից, որ ընդհանուր առմամբ խոսեց Հայոց Լեզվի (և արևելահայերեն և արևմտահայերեն) վիճակի մասին Սփյուռքի մեջ։

Ներկա էր Դոկտ․ Տ․ Զավեն Ավագ Քահանա Արզումանյանը։ Բարի գալուստի խոսք ասաց Զվարթնոց Մշակութային Հանձնախմբի Ատենապետ՝ Դոկտ․ Սիմոն Սիմոնյանը։ Գեղարվեստական բաժնում ելույթներ ունեցան՝ Փասատենայի Հովսեփյան Վարժարանի երկու սաներ՝ Շանթ Աղաջանյանը, որը արտասանեց “Հայ լեզուն տունն է հայուն” – Մուշեղ Իշխան, իսկ Շան Արմոթիքյանը՝ Վահան Թեքեյանի “Տաղ հայերեն լեզվի” , արտասանությունը։


Բրբենկի Շաբաթօրյա Դպրոցի աշակերտներ՝ քույր և եղբայր Դավիթ և Դայանա Կուտուզյանները դաշնամուրի վրա կատարեցին The band played on” գործը, իսկ Դավիթ Կուտուզյանը շվիով հրաշալի կեպով նվագեց Կոմիտաս Վարդապետի Կաքավիկ, Խնկի ծառի և Քելե-Քելե երգերը արժանանալով բուռն ծափահարությունների։ Վերջում ներկաները հարցեր տվեցին հարգարժան Դասախոսին։

Հովսեփ Ավագ Քահանա Հակոբյան փակման աղոթքից առաջ Առաջնորդ Սրբազան Հոր՝ Գերաշնորհ Տ․ Հովնան Արք․ Տերտերյանի անունով շնորհակալություն հայտնեց հարգելի Դասախոսին իր շինիչ և օգտակար դասախոսության համար, Հովսեփյան Դպրոցի Վարժարանի Տնօրեն՝ Պրն․ Շահե Մանկրյանին, որ անձամբ ներկա էր և Շաբաթօրյա Դպրոցի Տնօրեն՝ Բարեշնորհ Հովհաննես Սրկ․ Գումրույանին, ծնողներին, ներկա հավատացյալներին և “Զվարթնոց” Մշակութային Հանձնախմբի բոլոր անդամներին Դասախոսությունը կազմակերպելու և հյուրասիրության համար։

Fourth Annual Scholarship Fund Celebration
The stars shone brightly in the night sky over Hollywood as the Archbp. Hovnan Derderian Scholarship Fund Committee held its fourth annual dinner celebration to a capacity crowd at Madame Tussauds in Hollywood, Friday, April 29. Under the auspices of His Eminence Archbp. Hovnan Derderian, the night was a triumph in surpassing Fund goals and celebrating its mission with the crowd of enthusiastic guests who recognized the necessity of scholarship and financial aid to assist Armenian schools in retaining student enrollment.

VIEW ALL PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT

The evening started out with a lavish cocktail reception where guests were greeted by committee members and met “stars” before being seated outdoors for an elegant dinner which was generously donated by Grand Benefactors Dr. Bedros and Dr. Karine Taglyan. Committee member Eileen Keusseyan, Esq., mistress of ceremonies, set the tone for the night emphasizing the Scholarship Fund tagline “Not One Child Is Left Behind” thanks to the generous support of donors. She expressed to the guests, “You are the stars of the night that shine brightly on our children.” She continued, “Without you, we could not have reached our goals and provided students with the opportunity to continue in our Armenian schools.”

“This year is particularly special, “said Mrs. Alice Chakrian, chairlady of the Scholarship Fund Committee, “because your growing presence encourages us to continue and reach higher in our goals. With your support, we should never again permit any Armenian school to close its doors on our students. Thanks to your generosity, this year we have outdone the previous year.”

Indeed, this year, three Armenian schools including Alfred and Marguerite Hovsepian School, AGBU Manoogian-Demirdjian School, and AGBU Vatche and Tamar Manoukian High School were presented with checks totaling $35,000 for student tuition assistance. Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Alice Chakrian, and Eileen Keusseyan presented the checks to the principals and representatives of each school.

Three alumnae from the high schools, Miss Ani Kazandjian, Miss Emma Ohanian and Miss Raquel Pareseghian, each testified to the irreplaceable experience of attending Armenian schools. One spoke of the friendships that were created which would last a lifetime, while another spoke of the special attention by teachers at the Armenian schools, and a third spoke of the guidance given to make the right choices to further their education. All three young alumnae are college students following their passion in various academic institutions of higher learning. To introduce the Alice Nazerian Educational Fund which is a branch of the Archbp. Hovnan Derderian Scholarship Fund, was her daughter Miss Nora Nazerian, who spoke from the heart expressing her joy at establishing an endowment in her mother’s honor. “My mother, the late Alice Nazerian was a member of this committee,” she said. “She believed in education of all children. On behalf of our family, I am proud to have this fund established through the Hovnan Derderian Scholarship Fund.”

Archbishop Hovnan Derderian expressed his humble gratitude for the success of the Scholarship Fund. “This is indeed a phenomenal celebration because with your support the future of the Armenian spirit is stronger. The future belongs to our children and the education of our children is the future for our enduring Armenian survival.” He commended the committee for their dedication and their unwavering faith in the mission of the Scholarship Fund.

The Scholarship Fund also provides incentives for students to excel in their thought processing development as exemplary Christian youths. Non-need based monetary gifts are awarded through Essay Competition and Senior Graduation awards. The essay writing theme is based on Christian principles and values and is reserved solely for 8th and 9th grade students, whereas the Senior Graduation awards are given to seniors, selected by the administration of each of the three participating schools, who demonstrate exemplary service in the life of the Armenian community, with exemplary moral character.


The evening turned into a festive night of celebration with dinner under the stars with music by DJ Star Joe Bekerian followed by guests walking throughout the museum with photo ops among “stars,” allowing their imagination and fantasies to run wild.

The Hovnan Derderian Scholarship Fund was established on the conviction that each and every Armenian student is entitled to an Armenian education within an Armenian school. The Fund is dedicated to helping Armenian students in financial need who are enrolled in an Armenian school through a scholarship and financial assistance program. Besides tuition assistance, the Fund sponsors an essay competition which offers outright non-need based monetary gifts to students enrolled in an Armenian school. Also part of the Fund’s program are Senior Graduation awards, presented to the graduating seniors selected by the school’s administration for exemplary Christian behavior and presented at their respective commencement ceremonies.
For information, please contact Mrs. Alice Chakrian at (818) 388-6734 oralicechakrian@gmail.com
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Primate Interviewed on Armount TV Network – Las Vegas, NV – April 12, 2016
Primate’s May 2016 Schedule
May 14 – Cathedral Event

May 15 – St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church
Saturday School Event

May 21 – Little Angels Saturday School Graduation Ceremony
Evening: St. Leon Armenian Cathedral Parish Annual Gala

May 22 – USC – Gala Banquet

May 27 – 29 – ACYO Sports Weekend

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