Author: Tatoyan Vazgen

Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America
H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate
6252 Honolulu Avenue
La Crescenta, CA 91214
Tel: (818) 248-7737
Fax: (818) 248-7745
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.westernprelacy.org
PRELATE TO PAY PASTORAL VISIT TO SAN FRANCISCO PARISH COMMUNITY ON THE 51ST
ANNIVERSARY OF ST. GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR CHURCH
        Over the weekend, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate,
will travel to San Francisco to preside over 51st anniversary celebrations
of St. Gregory the Illuminator Church.  
        On Sunday, October 15, 2017, the Prelate will celebrate Divine
Liturgy at St. Gregory the Illuminator Church and deliver the sermon on the
Feast of the Holy Translators. 
        On Saturday evening, the Prelate will preside over the church's 51st
annual banquet hosted by the Parish Pastor, Board of Trustees, and Ladies
Auxiliary, during which Mrs. Annig Zindarzian and Mr. Leo Donian will be
recognized for their lifetime of dedicated service to the church and
community. Special recognition will also be given to Mr. Carlos Mendoza for
his years of devotion and loyalty to the parish community. 
***
WESTERN PRELACY LADIES AUXILIARY TO HOST LECTURE-LUNCHEON ON THE
PRESERVATION OF ARMENIAN MUSIC
        On Thursday, October 19, 2017, a lecture-luncheon will be held at
the Western Prelacy "Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian" Hall dedicated to
the preservation of Armenian music. Dr. Karenn Chutjian-Presti, a member of
the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music faculty, will lecture on the topic.
        The luncheon is being held under the auspices of H.E. Archbishop
Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, and is organized by the Prelacy Ladies
Auxiliary. Tickets are $20 and can be reserved by calling the Prelacy office
at 818-248-7737, Ladies Auxiliary members Vartoug at 626-372-5536 or Vania
at 818-216-9935. 
***
PRELATE PRESIDES OVER DIVINE LITURGY AND CONSECRATES PAINTING AT FORTY
MARTYRS CHURCH IN ORANGE COUNTY
- PRAYERS FOR LAS VEGAS SHOOTING VICTIMS IN PRELACY CHURCHES
        On Sunday, October 8, 2017, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, presided over Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at Forty
Martyrs Church in Orange County. Rev. Fr. Karekin Bedourian celebrated
Divine Liturgy. Very Rev. Fr. Vache Balekjian and Archpriest Fr. Khoren
Habeshian participated. By the ordinance of His Eminence, on this day, "Der
Voghormya" prayers were offered in all Prelacy Churches for the victims of
the Las Vegas shooting. 
        During the service, the Prelate consecrated a painting of St. Sarkis
sponsored by the Ohanessian family in memory of their parents, Mardiros and
Gassia Ohanessian.
        The Prelate then delivered his sermon, the theme of which was
discipleship, given that the day before was the commemoration of our Lord
Jesus Christ's 72 disciples, and also touched on the Feast of the Holy
Translators, which was to be celebrated the following week. His Eminence
started by noting that besides the 12 apostles, Jesus had 72 disciples to
whom He instructed and commanded to "Go into all the world and preach the
gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15), what is known as the Great
Commission. The Prelate noted that discipleship was not limited to the early
followers of Christ, and that God still desires disciples today to fulfill
the Great Commission. "As children of God, we must be committed to serving
Him faithfully and fulfilling the duties and responsibilities entrusted to
us as Christians," he stressed. The Prelate further explained the meaning of
discipleship, adding that being a disciple requires making Christ the focus
of our lives, studying and obeying His teachings and commandments by reading
the Bible, being in constant communication with Him through prayer, serving
Him through active involvement in the church, sharing our faith with others,
and becoming an example to others through the life we lead. 
        The Prelate stressed that as a dispersed nation we must work even
harder to maintain our distinct faith and heritage among a slew of external
influences, adding that we are fortunate to have great examples before us,
the legacy of our saints and forefathers, including that of the Holy
Translators, to inspire and lead us in our service today. Citing verse 5 of
the day's Scripture reading from 2 Corinthians 13:5-13, "Examine yourselves
as to whether you are in the faith," His Eminence called for introspection
to see if we are as steadfast in our faith as our forefathers were, and to
strive for their level of faith so that we can be effective disciples for
our church and nation. "The survival and advancement of our faith and
heritage rests on our shoulders, and on those of future generations,"
stressed the Prelate, encouraging the faithful to take inspiration from the
72 disciples and our Holy Translators and do their part to preserve and
promote our faith and our culture, starting with our children and youth. 
        Next, His Eminence spoke of the horrific shooting in Las Vegas the
week before which claimed the lives of nearly 60 and injured nearly 500, and
asked the faithful to join in praying for the souls of the deceased to rest
in peace in the kingdom of heaven, for the speedy and full recovery of the
injured, and for our loving and merciful Lord to bring peace and comfort to
the families of the victims. Finally, the Prelate noted that the day also
marked the 40th day since the passing of a beloved member of the community,
Movses Shrikian. He conveyed his condolences to the Shrikian and Keledjian
families on the untimely loss of their husband, father, brother, uncle, and
son-in-law, and on the loss of their patriarch Archpriest Fr. Nareg
Shrikian, soon after. 
        At the conclusion of Divine Liturgy and requiem service, a special
reception by the Parish Pastor, Board of Trustees, and Ladies Guild was
hosted at "Gugasian" Hall in celebration of the Prelate's anniversary of
ordination to the priesthood, 20th anniversary of Episcopal ordination, and
60th birthday. In attendance were Delegates, Board of Trustees members,
Armen Karo Gomideh representatives, and faithful. Congratulatory remarks
were delivered by Fr. Karekin and Board of Trustees Chair Mr. Herair
Jermakian. The Prelate thanked all for the surprise celebration and wished
the parish community continued successes in their mission. 
***
EXHIBITION OF ARMENIAN-AMERICAN ARTIST ARTHUR PINAJIAN'S WORKS HELD AT THE
WESTERN PRELACY
        On Thursday, , a special exhibition of
Armenian-American artist Arthur Pinajian's works opened at the Western
Prelacy "Dikran and Zarouhie Der Ghazarian" Hall. The exhibit, which was
held under the auspices of H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate,
and organized by Stephanie's Art Gallery, featured thirty rarely seen works,
in particular the artist's mid-century abstractions and late lyrical
landscapes. Members of clergy, Executive Council Chair Mr. Vahe Hovaguimian,
and art appreciators were in attendance.
        The program began with welcoming remarks by Ladies Auxiliary member
Mrs. Vania Babikian, who then invited Stephanie's Art Gallery Director, Ms.
Linda Stepanian, to give an overview of the artist and the exhibit. Ms.
Stepanian first thanked the Prelate, and then spoke on Arthur Pinajian's
life, approach, and the value and distinctiveness of his creations, noting
that he is regarded as one of the greatest artists of his time.
        The Prelate greeted the guests and commended the organizers, noting
that the exhibit is a fitting tribute to Armenian Cultural Month. His
Eminence commended the efforts of Stephanie's Art Gallery in promoting and
celebrating Armenian art and artists, and conclude by affirming the
Prelacy's endless continual support of the arts.
        Throughout the exhibit, guests enjoyed a Wine and Cheese Reception
hosted by the Western Prelacy Ladies Auxiliary.
        The exhibit continued the following day. 
***
STATE SENATOR ANTHONY PORTANTINO VISITS THE PRELACY
        On Tuesday, October 10, 2017, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian,
Prelate, welcomed the visit of State Senator Anthony Portantino. His
Eminence was joined by Very Rev. Fr. Torkom Donoyan, Vicar General, while
Senator Portantino was accompanied by District Representative Ms. Arda
Tchakian.
        The discussion centered on the Senator's service and endeavors in
Sacramento thus far and his future plans. There was also conversation on the
Armenian-American Museum and the Senator's trip to Armenia.
         The Prelate commended Senator Portantino's dedicated service and in
particular his unwavering support of the Armenian-American community, and
wished him continued successes in his mission.
***
SUPERVISOR KATHRYN BARGER'S DEPUTIES VISITS THE PRELACY
        On Tuesday, October 10, 2017, Supervisor Kathryn Barger's Chief
Deputy, Ms. Anna Mouradian, and Senior Field Deputy, Mr. Jarrod Degonia,
paid a visit to the Western Prelacy for an introductory meeting with H.E.
Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate.
        The guests noted that the Armenian community forms a very important
part of Supervisor Barger's district, and expressed their readiness to offer
any assistance to the community as needed. They also touched on the
Supervisor's initiatives with regards to the Armenian community, such as
proclaiming the month of April as Armenian Heritage Month. 
        The Prelate in turn gave an overview of the scope of the Prelacy's
endeavors within the community, and expressed confidence that the
long-standing spirit of friendship and collaboration between the Prelacy and
the Supervisor's office will continue during Supervisor Barger's tenure. The
visit concluded with the presentation of mementos. 
***
PRELATE DELIVERS INVOCATION AT ANCA-WR ANNUAL GALA
        On Sunday, October 8, 2017, the annual gala of the Armenian National
Committee of America Western Region was held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel
with the attendance of public officials, dignitaries, leaders and members of
community organizations, sponsors, and friends. H.E. Archbishop Moushegh
Mardirossian, Prelate, attended and delivered the invocation.
        This year, the organization honored the following individuals for
their contributions to the advancement of the Armenian Cause: Garo Paylan,
Armenian member of Turkish Parliament - Freedom Award, Terry George,
Filmmaker and Director - Arts & Letters, State Senator Anthony Portantino -
Legislator of the Year, Bared Maronian, Documentary Filmmaker - Arts &
Letters, Congressman David Valadao - Advocate for Justice, and a special
tribute to the late musician Chris Cornell.     
        The Prelate commended the incredible level of devotion and
enthusiasm with which the leadership and membership of the ANCA-Western
Region serve day in and day out to fulfill the organization's vast and
far-reaching mission, praying for God to continue to bless them with
strength, courage, and wisdom so that through them, the voice of the
Armenian-American community may continue to resonate through the halls of
our government. He blessed the honorees, "bold and principled individuals
from different walks of life but with shared purpose, advocating tirelessly
for truth and justice through their respective capacities," and the
sponsors, "whose generosity makes it possible for this and all community
organizations to grow and expand their scope." The Prelate concluded by
beseeching the Lord to continue to guide our collective path as we serve for
the progress and prosperity of our people and our nation
***
PRELATE ATTENDS 16TH ANNUAL GERALD AND MARK GOLF CLASSIC
        On Monday, October 9, 2017, the 16th annual Gerald and Mark Golf
Classic hosted by national benefactor Mr. Hank Khachaturian was held at the
Peninsula Golf and Country Club in San Mateo. The event was founded by Mr.
Khachaturian and his late wife, Rita, as a tribute to their sons and also
the benefit a number of charities. 
        H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, attended the awards
dinner and delivered his message. Very Rev. Fr. Barouyr Shernezian and St.
Gregory the Illuminator Church representatives were among the guests in
attendance.
        His Eminence began his message by expressing thanks to God for
granting the opportunity to gather once again to honor the memory of Hank's
beloved sons while contributing to vital charitable causes, adding, "This
year, we feel the physical absence of Hank's dear wife Rita, but at the same
time we sense her joyful spirit and presence." 
        His Eminence commended Mr. Khachaturian's unbound generosity and
goodwill, stating, "I, and almost certainly everyone here, can attest that
you are not only a cheerful giver, but a humble and gracious giver as well.
The level of support this event garners each year is indeed a beautiful
testament to you." The Prelate conveyed his blessings to Mr. Khachaturian as
well as to the sponsors, participants, and guests for their enduring support
and encouragement. He concluded by praying for the repose of Gerald, Mark,
and Rita's souls and wishing all many healthy, joyful, and prosperous years
to come. 
***
IN DEFENSE OF CHRISTIANS SUMMIT 2017
        In Defense of Christians, a non-profit and nonpartisan organization
advocating for the human rights of Christians in the Middle East and for the
preservation of Christianity in the Middle East, has organized a summit in
Washington DC from October 24-26 with the title, "American Leadership and
Securing the Future of Christians in the Middle East."
        Christian leaders and lay activists, including leaders of the
Armenian Church and of community organizations, will gather to advocate for
vital issues, including international recognition of the Armenian Genocide,
security and stability in Lebanon, emergency relief for victims of Genocide
in Iraq and Syria, and more. 
        His Holiness Catholicos Aram I participated in the inaugural
conference in 2014 and delivered powerful remarks on the imperative of
Christian unity in the Middle East.
        The Armenian National Committee of America is once again a sponsor
of the convention, and will participate in a number of related events. 
***

Interfax - Russia & CIS Military Newswire
 Tuesday 6:10 PM MSK
Yerevan sees Aliyev's statements before Armenia-Azerbaijan Karabakh
summit as provocative
YEREVAN. Oct 10
Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan believes the Azerbaijani leadership
regularly resorts to provocative acts in the run-up to top-level
meetings to address the problem of Nagorno-Karabakh, Armenian
presidential press secretary Vladimir Akopyan said.
"The president of Armenia believes that everyone perfectly knows that
the Azerbaijani leadership resorts to provocative acts before
top-level meetings. The latest statement was of the same kind, the
only distinction being that this act of provocation was committed in
the center of Baku rather than on the border with Armenia or the line
of contact with Artsakh [the unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh republic],"
Akopyan said in an interview with the Armenian news agency News.am.
Several days before a meeting between the presidents of Armenia and
Azerbaijan initiated by the OSCE Minsk Group countries, Azerbaijan "is
trying to create the illusion that it acts from the dictating position
at the negotiations."
"Baku's calculus is very primitive - to avoid responsibility for
failing to implement agreements reached at previous summits, primarily
to the people of Azerbaijan," Akopyan said.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev had said at an expanded government
meeting on Monday that the negotiating process would be resumed
without preconditions.
Aliyev also accused Armenia of torpedoing negotiations on settling the
conflict. He said Armenia had tried to disrupt the talks in any way it
could by inventing all kinds of pretexts and putting forward various
preconditions.
"Our and Baku's perceptions of disgrace are strikingly different," Akopyan said.
"Perhaps Azerbaijan doesn't know it, but abandoning agreements reached
earlier has been regarded as disgraceful in our region for ages. It's
a disgrace when something said in the international arena in the
presence of other foreign leaders and something said at home do not
match. It's a disgrace when you try to deceive the international
community and your own people," Akopyan said.
Armenia's agreement to hold negotiations does not mean that it has
changed its position on Nagorno-Karabakh or on the need to implement
the agreements reached in Vienna and St. Petersburg, he said.
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