On Sunday morning, June 22, 2026, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, celebrated Divine Liturgy at St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church in Glendale. During his spiritually enriching sermon, the Prelate extended his Father’s Day blessings to the faithful in attendance, offering special recognition and blessings to all fathers. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by the Very Rev. Fr. Zareh Sarkissian, Dean of St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church. Assisting at the Holy Altar were the church’s deacons, scribes, and choir.
Archbishop Khacherian began his sermon with the words of Holy Scripture, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” The Prelate centered his reflections on the Lord’s Prayer, which Jesus Christ taught His disciples after they asked Him to teach them how to pray so that they might properly present their appeals before God.
Offering a thoughtful explanation of the Lord’s Prayer, Archbishop Khacherian noted that the opening appeals of the prayer are devoted to glorifying God and praying for the coming of His Kingdom before presenting our own needs. The Prelate emphasized that prayer should be offered with humility, moderation, and a spirit of forgiveness toward others. “Only then,” Archbishop Khacherian stated, “can we pray for our own peace and well-being before God, whose greatness and divine attributes are revealed to us through the Lord’s Prayer. We are all children of God, and He is the Heavenly Father of us all.”
Reflecting on the importance of fathers in the life of every family, the Prelate also spoke about the moral responsibilities entrusted to them. He further observed that spiritual fathers are likewise called to embody fatherly virtues, serving as faithful shepherds within the Church and offering guidance to families, communities, and the faithful. Remembering departed fathers, Archbishop Khacherian offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the souls of all fathers who have departed this life. Entrusting all fathers to the loving care of our Heavenly Father, the Prelate extended his Father’s Day blessings to the fathers of every generation present in the church, as well as to fathers throughout the world, conveying his blessings to all.
Following the Divine Liturgy, Archbishop Khacherian presided over a luncheon prepared by the Ladies Guild of St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church. The luncheon was organized in his honor to celebrate the 45th anniversary of his ordination to the holy priesthood. On this occasion, the Prelate received heartfelt congratulations from members of the parish family and the guests in attendance. After blessing those present, Archbishop Khacherian concluded the celebration by offering a prayer and cutting the anniversary cake.
