On the morning of Wednesday, May 14, 2025, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khatcherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, welcomed the 5th-grade students of Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School of Hollywood to the Western Prelacy. The students were accompanied by Archpriest Fr. Vicken Vassilian, Pastor of St. Garabed Armenian Apostolic Church of Hollywood, School Principal Dr. Souzy Ohanian, and faculty members.
The young students presented an age-appropriate cultural program. Following the program, Dr. Ohanian expressed words of appreciation for the care shown by the Western Prelacy and the warm reception by H.E. Archbishop Khacherian. On behalf of the students, Dr. Ohanian presented the Prelate with a commemorative gift prepared by the students.
In his remarks, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian commended the students for their use of the Armenian language and their strong cultural spirit. The Prelate noted that visiting the Western Prelacy plays an important role in strengthening students’ sense of identity and belonging. H.E. Archbishop Khacherian then offered his blessings to all and invited the students into the chapel for a brief lesson in Armenian history.
Inside the chapel, after a moment of prayer, the Prelate explained about the significance of the three paintings displayed on the walls of the chapel, depictions of St. Gregory the Illuminator, the first Catholicos of the Armenian Church, St. Mesrob Mashdots, the inventor of the Armenian alphabet, and the Battle of Vartanants, fought in defense of the Christian faith. H.E. Archbishop Khacherian explained that these three figures and events are cornerstones of Armenian Christian identity and have served as lasting sources of strength for the Armenian people throughout history.
H.E. Archbishop Khacherian praised the students’ visit to the Western Prelacy, and encouraged them to remain connected to their Armenian roots, to value their faith, homeland, nation and culture, and to carry those values with them as they grow.
