On Sunday, November 10, 2024, on the occasion of the 61st anniversary of Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church of Encino, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, celebrated Episcopal Divine Liturgy, delivered a sermon and conducted the blessing of the Madagh.
Archpriest Fr. Razmig Khatchadourian, Pastor of Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church of Encino, was joined by deacons and scribes in assisting the altar. The Divine Liturgy was attended by H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, as well as local delegates, Board of Trustee members, representatives from sister organizations and bodies, benefactors, friends, and a significant number of parishioners. Mr. Vahe Hovaguimian, chairperson of the Western Prelacy Executive Council was also in attendance.
H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian’s sermon focused on a theme from the section “The Beatitudes” from the Gospel of Matthew, dedicated to the teachings of Jesus Christ, and summarized in chapters 5-7, under the “Sermon on the Mount,” which states, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Expanding on the reflections from the Gospel of Matthew, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian explained that in order to be deserving of God’s presence, one must bear a pure heart such as the saints of the church, who are considered the purest, and closest to God because they bear pure hearts and their lives are absorbed by God’s will. The Prelate further explained that in order to be deserving of God’s presence, one must follow God’s teachings, fulfill God’s will, live a life filled with God, show love to others, prioritize the well-being of others, avoid selfishness, and make the betterment of society and the common good one’s life work and mission.
H.E. Archbishop Khacherian also emphasized that martyrs, who willingly sacrifice themselves, are regarded as saints and their martyrdom is viewed as a reflection of God’s will for the greater good, demonstrating their faith in sacrificing their own life. The Prelate connected this concept to the naming of Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church and the Feast of all Saints, indicating that the day serves as a divine call for humanity to have pure and sincere hearts, even when faced with the possibility of martyrdom.
H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian extended his congratulations to the Encino community as they celebrate the 61st anniversary of the establishment of Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church and urged the parishioners to continue to demonstrate a spirit of dedication and service towards their spiritual home and community. The Prelate concluded by encouraging all in attendance to seek fulfillment and purpose in life by actively serving their church and community.
