On Friday, May 2, 2025, at noon, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, warmly welcomed the 8th-grade students of Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School to the Western Prelacy. The students visited as they approached an important milestone, the completion of their middle school education and their transition into high school. The purpose of the visit was to receive the Prelate’s blessings as they prepare to embark on this new chapter of their academic journey.
The students were accompanied by Dr. Souzie Ohanian, Principal of Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School, along with dedicated faculty members.
“A chapter of your life is closing, and a new one is beginning, dear students,” said H.E. Archbishop Khacherian in his welcoming remarks. “It is a beautiful tradition for students to visit the Western Prelacy throughout their academic journey, from early childhood through 12th grade, because this Spiritual Center is also your home. Today, your school may feel like your second home, but one day, the Western Prelacy will take on that role in your lives and become your second home. Through these visits, you are already discovering an important truth: when your time at Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School comes to an end, the Western Prelacy will become a lasting home for you, right after your family home. It is our sincere hope that you will uphold this truth throughout your life and continue to maintain a lasting connection with the Western Prelacy.” The Prelate added, “It is not you who should thank us for welcoming you; it is we who are grateful to you for visiting your second home.”
While the young students came seeking blessings for success, they left renewed with spiritual and cultural inspiration. Their well-prepared program in the hall and the enthusiastic songs performed at the entrance created an atmosphere of joy and belonging, a sentiment that resonated with all those present.
Following the program, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian led the students to the chapel for a moment of shared prayer. The Prelate then offered his heartfelt and fatherly blessings, expressing sincere wishes for each student’s continued success, safety, and growth.
As a gesture of appreciation on behalf of the 8th-grade class, Dr. Souzie Ohanian presented a commemorative gift to H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian. The students, filled with joy and appreciation, departed with a blessed wooden bracelet and a personal copy of the “In Faith I Confess” prayer book as meaningful keepsakes from their visit.»
