On Sunday morning, February 16, 2025, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, presided over the Divine Liturgy, delivered a sermon, and performed the blessing of the offering (Madagh) at St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in Pasadena in celebration of the Feast of St. Sarkis. H.E. Archbishop Khacherian extended his congratulations to the church’s large family and all those bearing the names Sarkis and Mardiros. After the Divine Liturgy, the Prelate presided over a luncheon, extending his blessings to the entire Armenian community of Pasadena, wishing them a life filled with prosperity and well-being.
During the Divine Liturgy, the altar was served by Rev. Fr. Boghos Baltayan, Pastor of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, alongside deacons, scribes, and the church choir, led by Deacon Yervant Keshishian, Choir Director. Among those present at the Divine Liturgy were Mr. Gaydzag Zetlian, member of the Central Executive of the Catholicosate of the Holy See of Cilicia, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Dzovig Zetlian, a member of the Executive Council of the Western Prelacy of the United States. Also in attendance were Mr. Sarkis Tatikian, member of the Executive Council, as well as the founding benefactors of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, Mr. and Mrs. Sarkis and Susan Kitsinian, along with the large church community and faithful parishioners.
In his sermon, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian focused on the spiritual nourishment that leads to eternal life, echoing the words of Jesus Christ: “I am the bread of life.” In contrast to the temporary nature of physical nourishment, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian emphasized the promise of eternal life offered by Jesus Christ, using reflections and life experiences to highlight the importance of inheriting the Kingdom of God through Jesus Christ.
H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian’s message also reflected on the unwavering faith of St. Sarkis the Commander and his son Mardiros, who were martyred for their faith in Jesus Christ. The Prelate reminded the congregation that “St. Sarkis holds a significant place in the lives of the Armenian people, is often regarded as the saint of difficult circumstances and known as the imminent saint. Believers have turned to him in times of natural disasters, storms, and hardship.” H.E. Archbishop Khacherian encouraged everyone to uphold the ancient traditions, as well as the national and religious values of the Armenian Church, so that through the church and its saints, we may recognize the truth, accept Jesus Christ as the bread of eternal life, and cherish the mission of the Armenian Church as the true source of spiritual nourishment and a heavenly sanctuary for our souls.
At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian performed the blessing of the offering (Madagh) and then presided over a luncheon organized by the Board of Trustees of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church. The Prelate shared bread with the attendees, strengthened their faith and dedication to the Armenian Church, expressed his appreciation to the benefactors and leaders, and bestowed his fatherly blessings upon all.
