Western Diocese News

Diocesan Publications

info@armenianchurchwd.com (Divan of the Diocese) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Most of us realize the responsibilities of the Western Diocese. It is the mission of the Western Diocese to tend to the spiritual needs of our beloved faithful. The process involves disseminating not only religious information, but historical, cultural and educational knowledge as well.

The historical, educational and cultural aspects of the Diocese are publicized through books and other publications. This idea was enlivened as His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, took over the responsibility of the Western Diocese.

The Diocesan publications remain one of the primary aspects of our outreach program in the community. Such was the case when His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian served as the Primate of the Diocese of Canada. Under the auspices of the Primate, nearly 300 books and pamphlets have been published by the Western Diocese in the recent years. The Primate has authored more than thirty of them. Other authors among many include the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Rev. Archpriest Frs. Dr. Zaven Arzoumanian and Hovsep Hagopian as well as Rev. Fr. Abel Oghlugian and Dn. Hrach Chilingirian. Important recent books like "The Armenian Church" by His Beatitude Archbishop Malachia Ormanian, late Patriarch of Constantinople, have been republished as well.

The Western Diocese is currently expanding under the leadership of the Primate. Young priests have joined the ranks of the Diocesan Clergy and are currently delivering the Word of God and strengthening the presence of the Armenian Church in the community.

Please refer to the following list of the Diocesan publications below:

"The Church of Armenia", H.B. Archbishop Malachia Ormanian, Patriarch of Constantinople (In Armenian and English, republished) Burbank, 2004,
"I Confess with Faith," St. Nerses the Graceful (republished) Burbank, 2003,
"Divine Liturgy for the Faithful", Published by the Western Diocese, Burbank, 2004,
"Divine Liturgy of the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church" Burbank, 2005,
"Pray and God Answers: The Family Prayer Book", Rev. Fr. Stepanos Dingilian, Ph.D., Burbank, 2006,
"Religious Events", Complete Collection, H.E. Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Burbank, 2006,
"The Strength of Faith", the Rev. Archpriest Fr. Hovsep Hagopian, Burbank, 2007,
"The New Oxford Annotated Bible with the Apocrypha" (RSV), Oxford University Press, New York, 2007,
"History of Ghevond the Eminent Vardapet of the Armenians", the Rev. Archpriest Fr. Dr. Zaven Arzoumanian, Burbank, 2007,
"A New Spokesman For the Armenian Apostolic Church", the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Burbank 2007,
"Faith in Action - Conversation with Archbishop Hovnan Derderian on his life, service to the community, faith and views", Ronald Alepian, Burbank 2007,
"Theology of the Armenian Apostolic Church - Introduction", the Rev. Archpriest Fr. Dr. Zaven Arzoumanian, Burbank, 2008,
"Children's Prayer Book", Headquarters of the Western Diocese, Burbank, 2008,
"The New Testament", Burbank, 2008,
"Haghortutyoun", the Very Rev. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Burbank, 2008.

The above mentioned publications along with many others are available at the bookstore of the Western Diocese located at:

3325 N. Glenoaks Blvd.

Burbank, CA 91504

The bookstore also carries other interesting Armenian books, CDs, DVDs and souvenirs. As an annual tradition, the Western Diocese publishes free copies of calendars, prayer books and other educational booklets.

We are pleased to announce that during the 2009-2010 calendar year, the Western Diocese will publish more than twenty books and booklets.

Diocesan Representative Assembly Convened in the Mother See

info@armenianchurchwd.com (Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, Information Services) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Diocesan Representative Assembly Convened in the Mother See

[img|0|left]From October 31 to November 3, 2009, the third Diocesan Representative Assembly of the Armenian Church is being held in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians will preside over the meetings, with the participation of representatives from the Armenian Patriarchates of Jerusalem and Constantinople; Diocesan Primates from Armenia and the Diaspora; high ranking clergy; Members of the Supreme Spiritual Council and representatives of the laity.

On October 30th, the representatives attended an evening services held in the Mother Cathedral of Holy Etchmiadzin, where a joint prayer was offered for success in the forthcoming meetings. At the conclusion of the service His Holiness asked that Almighty God grant the participants wisdom, and that the Holy Spirit lead them during the meetings for the glorification of God, the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church and her faithful.

On October 31, the opening ceremony of the meeting was held under the presidency of His Holiness Karekin II. In attendance for the opening session were Mr. Bako Sahakian, President of the Republic of Nagorno Karabakh; and Mr. Tigran Sargsian, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia and Chairman of the Diocesan Council of the Araratian Pontifical Diocese.

The meeting opened with the Lord's Prayer. His Holiness extended His Pontifical Blessings, welcoming the ecclesiastical and lay delegates from the Hierarchal Sees and Dioceses worldwide, who had traveled to the Mother See to participate in the Assembly.

In his remarks, His Holiness reflected on the development of general guidelines for the Armenian Church in recent history, affirming that the mission of the Church is aided by uniform administration. His Holiness noted that the aim of the meeting was to review, discuss and approve the guidelines on Diocesan Bylaws and Parish Policies.

"The establishment of guidelines for the Diocesan Bylaws will create stable circumstances for administering Diocesan life. The adoption of this document will be a substantial step in the process of the establishment of the Armenian Church Bylaws, and underscore the historical-canonical character of the Armenian Church" stated His Holiness, stressing the importance of everyone's participation in the discussion for the welfare and reinforcement of the Church.

Mr. Bako Sahakian, President of the Republic of Nagorno Kharabagh welcomed the participants of the meeting, emphasizing the importance of their work. President Sahakian stressed the important participation and role of the Armenian Church in the life of Nagorno Kharabagh. The president spoke on the successes in different spheres of life in Artsakh, current issues facing Armenians living in Artsakh and the efforts made by statesmen and clergy for the resolution of these issues. The President stressed the importance of the continuous support of Armenians all over the world for

Mr. Tigran Sargsian, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia also delivered welcoming remarks. The Prime Minister reflected on the relations and close cooperation between the Church and State, stressing the significant role of the Armenian Apostolic Church in the preservation of the national identity. He expressed confidence that the outcome of the meeting would contribute to the fulfillment of the mission of the Church, and aid in undertaking present day challenges. During the opening the participants also touched on life in the Homeland and the normalization process of Armenian-Turkish relations.

Following the official opening, elections were held for members of different working committees. His Eminence Archbishop Khajak Parsamian, Primate of the Eastern Diocese of the Armenian Church of America and His Eminence Archbishop Yeznik Petrosian, General Secretary of Inter Church Relations and Director of the Publishing Center of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin were appointed as co-Chairmen of the meeting. Co-Vice chairman Dr. Vilen Hakobian of the Republic of Armenia and Dn. Dr. Varouj Altebarmakian, of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, both members of the Supreme Spiritual Council, were also elected to serve, as well as secretaries and a Balloting Committee. The delegates will hold deliberations in separate working groups as well as discuss and summarize the results of the meeting in general sessions.

2nd Day of the Diocesan Representative Assembly and Visit by the President of Armenia

On November 2, 2009, the 2nd day of the Diocesan Representative Assembly convened in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. The Assembly continued its work under the presidency of His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians. Present for the morning session was the President of the Republic of Armenia, Mr. Serzh Sargsian.

The Pontiff of All Armenians welcomed President Sargsian and reflected on the relations between the Church and State. His Holiness expressed his appreciation to the President for the continuous support of the Republic of Armenia authorities to the spiritual center of Armenian life, the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin; to the Armenian Apostolic Church and her world-wide Dioceses.

President Sargsian addressed the clergy and participants of the assembly, wishing them success in their meetings. He welcomed all the steps being taken for the reinforcement of the mission of the Armenian Church and for the fulfillment of the spiritual needs of Armenians living in the Diaspora. The President stressed the significant role of the Armenian Church in the life of the Diaspora, in the education of youth, and her role in the military, fostering a Homeland founded on moral values.

[img|2|left]The President praised the international peace making efforts of the Armenian Church and her important contribution to the ecumenical movement. He pledged that the State would support the Armenian Church in all her activities, and strengthen their successful cooperation for the welfare and reinforcement of the nation and the Homeland. He also reflected on the 10th Anniversary of Consecration of His Holiness, expressing his gratitude for the enormous works that were implemented during the last decade. Wishing His Holiness long-lasting Pontifical years and new achievements, President Sargsian granted to His Holiness the Order of St. Mesrop Mashtots, for his efforts in the preservation and development of national and spiritual values and virtues.

His Eminence Archbishop Yeznik Petrosian, Co-Chairman of the meeting, congratulated His Holiness on behalf of the participants, for being awarded the high Order of St. Mesrop Mashtots which is also an expression of the gratitude and love of the nation for His Holiness.

His Holiness expressed his appreciation for the high honor stating in part, "We accept it as an appreciation of the efforts as well as the service of all our spiritual servants of the Armenian Apostolic Holy Church. It is also for the merits of our forefathers and patriarchs who struggled for the welfare of the Armenian Church and for the stability of the Armenian State". The Pontiff of All Armenians gave his assurance that the spiritual servants of the Armenian Church would do their best to meet the expectations of the nation.

During the session, President Sargsian answered questions from the representatives regarding the ongoing process of normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations, negotiations on the Republic of Nagorno Karabagh and current issues facing the nation.

Also in attendance for the morning session was Mr. Berge Setrakian, President of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU).

The morning, afternoon and evening sessions continued with the work of deliberation and approval of the guidelines on Diocesan Bylaws and Parish Policies.

Diocesan Representative Assembly Comes to a Close

On November 4, the Diocesan Representative Assembly presided over by His Holiness Karekin II, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians, completed their work in the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin.

Over four days of meetings, representatives from the Hierarchal Sees of the Armenian Apostolic Church and Dioceses worldwide, discussed, approved and adopted the "Guidelines for Diocesan Bylaws of the Holy Armenian Apostolic Church".

[img|1|left]At the end of the meeting, the Pontiff of All Armenians gave his message of blessing to the delegates. His Holiness expressed his appreciation and happiness for their devoted and zealous endeavors in developing the Guidelines through a serious level of deliberation. He stressed that the Guidelines, once implemented in the Dioceses, will contribute to the strengthening of Armenian Dioceses worldwide and to the successful implementation of the Church mission.

The Catholicos of All Armenians extended his gratitude and blessings to the Chairmen, Vice chairmen, Secretaries, Committees and Representative Delegates of the meeting. His Holiness asked that God strengthen and protect under His Right Hand, the Homeland, the Armenians Apostolic Holy Church and Armenians worldwide.

His Holiness officially closed the session with a final prayer.

Concert Dedicated to the 140th Birthday of Gomidas

info@armenianchurchwd.com (Divan of the Diocese) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sipan Mekhsian Diocesan Chancellor and organizer Margarit Shahinian, a concert dedicated to the 140^th birthday of Gomidas was held in the Nazareth and Sima Kalaydjian Hall of the Arshag and Elenaor Dickranian Diocesan Complex in Burbank, Calfornia. Rev. Archpriest Frs. Dr. Zaven Arzoumanian and Manoog Markarian were among the clergy attending the concert.

The concert commenced with the opening statement by Mr. Henrig Anasian, musician and director of Sipan choir. Margarit Shahinian, a soloist of the Armenian Philharmonic and professor of Mashtots College performed beautifully during the concert. Actor and poet Haroutyun Futulian, the HII-AM String Quartet, pianist Armine Ghazarian, flutist Ararat Petrosyan and singer Hovhannes Shahbazian graced the evening with their respective talents.

The concert concluded with closing statement by Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sipan Mekhsian. In his remarks, Archpriest Fr. Mekhsian extended the greetings and blessings of the Primate emphasizing his appreciation to the organizers and performers. The beautiful evening drew to a close with a parting prayer by the Chancellor of the Western Diocese.

Opening Ceremony of St. Mary and St. Athanasius Coptic Orthodox Church

info@armenianchurchwd.com (Divan of the Diocese) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

On November 1, His Grace Bishop Serapion, Primate of the Diocese of Los Angeles and Hawaii, presided over the opening ceremony of St. Mary and St. Athanasius Coptic Orthodox Church in Northridge, California.

Banquet and Announcement

Following the opening ceremony, the church held a banquet. Representing the Primate, Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sipan Mekhsian, Chancellor of the Western Diocese, participated in the ceremony.

His Grace Bishop Serapion led the opening prayer and blessing of the tables. Fr. Antony Attalah, the evening host delivered the welcoming message and introduced the guest clergymen, political leaders and other distinguished guests. His Grace Bishop Serapion delivered a message in which he expressed the continuing mission of the Coptic Orthodox Church and praised the Lord for bestowing upon the faithful a newly-built church.

Fr. Bishoy Aziz reflected on the history of St. Mary and St. Athanasius. L.A. City councilmember Greig Smith expressed his gratitude for the invitation and presented His Grace Bishop Serapion a certificate signed by Antonio Villaraigosa, Mayor of the City of Los Angeles. Mr. Sami Antoun presented a repart about St. Mary and St. Anthanasius. During the banquet, the guests were treated to the beautiful musical performances of Gehan Latef and Selvia Botros.

St. Mary and St. Athanasius has four priests. Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sipan Mekhsian passed on the Primate's congratulatory message and brotherly greetings to His Grace Bishop Serapion. In turn, His Grace Bishop Serapion expressed his appreciation to the Primate. By the Grace of God, His Holiness Pope and Patriarch Snenuda III will consecrate St. Mary and St. Athanasius in the upcoming year.

Nairi Dance Studio Concert at Glendale High School

info@armenianchurchwd.com (Divan of the Diocese) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

On November 1, the Glendale High School Auditorium was the venue for the Nairi Dance Studio concert dedicated to Janna Khachatryan's 50^th anniversary in her work. Singer Khachik Karadeghian dedicated a special song to Janna Khachatryan during the concert.

The concert was wonderfully organized by Louiza Khachatryan, daughter and Liana Karapetyan, granddaughter of Janna Khachatryan. The evening was graciously hosted by Anahit Martirosyan.

Among the many dances, some were dedicated to Palm Sunday, Transfiguration and Gomidas. Dressed in beautiful outfits, the children presented 34 dances in total. The grandchildren of Janna Khachatryan stunned the crowd with their beautiful performances.

The Armenian Church of La Canada Parish Priest Rev. Archpriest Fr. Hovsep Hagopian represented the Primate at the concert. Fr. Hagopian concluded the concert with a parting prayer and a message from the Primate. In his message, the Primate congratulated Janna Khachatryan and praised her efforts of evoking an Armenian cultural presence in the lives of her many students.

Since Rev. Archpriest Fr. Hovsep Hagopian and his family knew Janna Khachatryan from Armenia, Fr. Hagopian congratulated her on behalf of his family and presented her with a gift. Janna Khachatryan also received a certificate of recognition from Vartan Aghajanian, Director of "Zvartnots" Dance Studio. The 91 year-old mother of Janna Khachatryan who was also present at the concert received a large bouquet of flowers amidst a special ovation.

AMGA Television Organizes a Fundraiser

info@armenianchurchwd.com (Divan of the Diocese) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

On November 1, beginning at 4 PM, AMGA-280, AABC-284 and High Vision - 281 TV stations broadcasted a live telethon fundraiser for the orphans and disabled children of Armenia.

The organizer of the event was Mr. Hovhannes Balayan, Chief Editor of "Kach Nazar" periodical and host of "Kach Nazar" television program which airs from 10PM to 12:30AM every Sunday. This year marked the 10^th anniversary of this fundraiser under the organization of Mr. Balayan.

Representing the Primate was Rev. Archpriest Fr. Hovsep Hagopian who opened the fundraiser by reciting the Lord's Prayer. Fr. Hagopian also read the Primates message commending Mr. Balayan for his wonderful service over the years in assisting the orphans and disabled children in Armenia.

Rev. Archpriest Fr. Hovsep Hagopian encouraged the people to offer a helping hand because their generosity would bring smiles to the faces of the needy children. Fr. Hagopian made the first donation during the televised segment of the telethon. In his remarks, Mr. Hovhannes Balayan expressed his gratitude to the Primate for his welcoming and encouraging words. With the participation of numerous underwriters, community leaders and activists, the nine-hour long fundraiser proved to be a success.

Armenian National Peace Officers Association Honors the Memory of Deputy Jake Karajian

info@armenianchurchwd.com (Divan of the Diocese) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

On October 25, the Armenian National Peace Officers Association gathered at the Kalaydjian Hall in the Diocesan Headquarters. The reception was followed by a dinner. Furthermore, the members of the association honored Deputy Jake Karajian and in his memory awarded Scholarship Awards to local law enforcement and elected officials.

The honorees included Sheriff Leroy Baca, Los Angeles County District Attorney Steve Cooley, Chief of Pasadena Police Bernard K. Melekian, Commissioner Alan Skobin and Special Assistant to Sheriff Baca Tevan Aroustamian.

The evening keynote speaker was Chief of Police of the City of Pasadena Bernark K. Melekian. Chief William J. McSweeney of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department was the master of ceremonies.

Representing the Primate, the Very Rev. Fr. Baret Dz. V. Yeretzian read the message of the Primate, which reads as follows:

The Armenian National Peace Officers Association has always been an effective vehicle for Armenian-American peace officers to demonstrate their passionate commitment to the welfare and safety of our communities throughout this great country of ours. As the Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of North America, I would like to express my utmost gratitude to the Armenian National Peace Officers Association for being so committed to the safety and wellbeing of all citizens in their communities.

Tonight we have gathered to honor local law enforcement and elected officials in memory of Deputy Jake Karajian via the scholarship awards which will be awarded tonight. But as we celebrate your individual and collective achievements tonight, we must endeavor to explore new opportunities and possibilities that present a platform for further and future advancement of justice and law enforcement in our communities.

We would like to acknowledge the following individuals who are honored tonight and personally thank them for their contributions to our community, namely, Sheriff Lee Baca, Los Angeles County District Attorney Steve Cooley; Chief of Police of City of Pasadena Bernard K. Melekian; Commissioner Alan Skobin, and finally Tevan Aroustamian, Special Assistant to Sheriff Baca.

Let me conclude my message by the following words from the Holy Bible: "By me kings reign, and rulers decree what is just; by me princes rule, and nobles govern the earth. I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me" (Prov. 8:15-17). And be diligent in striving for peace and tranquility for "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9).

I wish you every success in your God-pleasing mission of providing safety to your fellow citizens. May the Lord bless you abundantly that you may become the good hands of Almighty God in protecting your fellow men and women throughout the blessed United States.

Centennial Celebration of St. Anne Melkite Greek Catholic Church

info@armenianchurchwd.com (Divan of the Diocese) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

On the weekend of October 24-25, St. Anne Melkite Greek Catholic Church celebrated One Hundred Years of its existence in the Los Angeles area. His Eminence Archbishop Cyril Salim Bustros, Eparch for the Diocese of Newton was present at the celebration weekend.

On October 24^th, the church organized a grand banquet in which the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Vicar General represented the Primate. The Vicar General extended the Primate's gratitude and congratulatory message to Archbishop Cyril Salim Bustros and Fr. Albert Wehby, Pastor of St. Anne Melkite Greek Catholic Church. On the following morning, the clergymen celebrated the Divine Liturgy and participated in a reception following the service.

Forum Titled: “What Did the Armenian Schools of Southern California Accomplish in the Past 50 Years?”

info@armenianchurchwd.com (Divan of the Diocese) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

On October 22, the Los Angeles Chapter of the Tekeyan Cultural Association organized an evening titled "What did the Southern California Armenian Schools Accomplish in the past 50 years?" The event took place at the Glendale Central Library where the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Vicar General represented the Primate.

After welcoming the guests, the host of the evening Vatche Semerjian reflected on the role of the Armenian school in society and its importance. The evening lecturer was Onnig Keshishian and the discussion group members included Haykouhi Patapoutian, Tereza Hayrapetian, Gevork Keoshgerian and Vazken Bulghurjian.

The initiative taken by the Los Angeles Chapter of the Tekeyan Cultural Association with an emphasis on the importance of the Armenian schools is commended by the Diocese.

Pilgrimage to St. Mary Armenian Church in Costa Mesa

info@armenianchurchwd.com (Divan of the Diocese) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

On October 22, under the auspices of His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate, and guidance provided by the Very Rev. Fr. Dajad Dz. V. Yardemian, Vicar General, the Ladies Society Central Council, under the leadership of Chair Araxie Boyamian, organized a pilgrimage to St. Mary Armenian Church in Costa Mesa. Ladies from the Ladies Societies of various Southern California Parishes joined the pilgrimage.

Rev. Archpriest Fr. Moushegh Tashjian and Claudette Mekalian, Chair of the Ladies Society of St. Mary Armenian Church in Costa Mesa offered the welcoming remarks.

The Vicar General presided over the ceremony during which the ladies read prayers from St. Nerses the Graceful. After readings from the Holy Bible, keynote speakers Rev. Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan, Pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church in Pasadena, delivered a message entitled "Renewal in Christ." Rev. Archpriest Fr. Moushegh Tashjian, presented a lecture about the hymns and prayers of the Armenian Church.

The ceremony was concluded with a parting prayer led by the Vicar General and was followed by a reception.