On the occasion of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross and the name-day of Holy Cross Cathedral in Montebello, on Sunday, September 17, 2017, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, celebrated Divine Liturgy, delivered the sermon, and conducted the blessing of madagh at Holy Cross Cathedral. Rev. Fr. Ashod Kambourian, Rev. Fr. Movses Shannakian, and deacons assisted at the altar. Parish delegates, board members, representatives of sister organizations, and sponsors were in attendance.
During Divine Liturgy, the Prelate conducted “Antasdan” service, the blessing of the four corners of the earth, and then began his sermon by greeting the parish family and wishing them continued success in their God-pleasing and church-building mission. His Eminence gave a brief overview of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, stressing, “the historical event relating to the Feast occurred in the 7th century, but the message of the Cross is a timeless and living message that is relevant for all times.” The Prelate highlighted the significance of the Holy Cross as the heart of Christianity and the most prevailing and sacred symbol of our faith, citing from St. Paul’s epistle to the Corinthians, that “the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).
His Eminence emphasized the extraordinary life-changing message of the Holy Cross as the hope and promise of redemption and salvation, noting that with the crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the cross was transformed from an instrument of death to the “wood of life,” “shield of fortification,” and “the seal of triumph against the enemy.” Thus, in the example of our forefathers, the Prelate invited the faithful to turn to the Holy Cross of Christ for strength, guidance, and hope. His Eminence congratulated the parish on its name-day and urged all members to commit to serving for the glory of God, the advancement of the community, and for the best interests of our youth with faith, hope, and love, trusting in the Holy Cross of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ as the pillar of strength, mercy, and salvation. The Prelate also noted that during “Der Voghormya,” prayers would be offered for the soul of Archpriest Fr. Nareg Shrikian, who was instrumental in the construction of Holy Cross Cathedral and was dearly loved by the parish community
At the conclusion of the service, the faithful gathered at “Baghramian” Hall for the blessing of madagh conducted by the Prelate, after which a luncheon was hosted by the parish Ladies Aid.
