On Sunday morning, October 18, 2026, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, celebrated Divine Liturgy and delivered a sermon at St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church in San Francisco in celebration of the church’s 60th anniversary.
In his sermon, Archbishop Khacherian reflected on the vital role of the Armenian Church in the spiritual, national, and moral development of the Armenian people. He emphasized its enduring influence in the struggle of successive generations to preserve their Armenian identity and ensure their continued existence.
The Prelate stressed that the Church is far more than a physical structure. Rather, it serves as a spiritual guide that shapes the lives of the Armenian people through faith, a source of hope in times of despair, and a sanctuary of divine love for all who seek God in every aspect of their lives and gather inside His house to worship Him with reverence and in accordance with His will.
Assisting at the Holy Altar during the Divine Liturgy were Rev. Fr. Artsakh Badoyan, Pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church, along with deacons, scribes, and members of the church choir. Also in attendance, alongside the faithful of the San Francisco Armenian community, was Mr. Jack Hadjinian, Vice-Chair of the Western Prelacy Executive Council, who traveled from Los Angeles to participate in the anniversary celebration.
At the conclusion of his sermon, Archbishop Khacherian expressed his sincere appreciation for the San Francisco Armenian community and offered words of encouragement and recognition to its spiritual and community leadership. He commended the dedication and contributions of the entire church family, including the Board of Trustees and its various committees, the administrations of the Armenian school and preschool, students and parents, as well as the Armenian organizations and associations serving the community.
On this significant milestone, Archbishop Khacherian extended his heartfelt congratulations and blessings to the entire parish community, wishing its members another sixty years of continued growth, prosperity, and meaningful service to the Armenian Church and people.
Following the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Khacherian visited a section of the church complex that had previously sustained fire damage as a result of an act of vandalism. The affected area is currently undergoing restoration and renovation. During his visit, the Prelate toured the site and received a firsthand update on the progress of the restoration efforts, including details of the work currently underway.
