On Sunday, October 16, 2016, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, presided over Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon at St. Mary’s Church in Glendale. Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Gomidas Torossian.
Prior to delivering the sermon, the Prelate joyfully announced that His Holiness was bestowing the rank of Archpriest upon parish pastor Rev. Fr. Gomidas Torossian, in commendation for his 27 years of dedicated service in the priesthood, 15 of them within our Prelacy as one of the pastors of St. Mary’s Church. The Pontifical Encyclical bestowing the honor was carried up to the altar by Archpriest Fr. Vazken Atmajian, which was read by the Prelate and presented to Fr. Gomidas. His Eminence blessed and congratulated Fr. Gomidas for his faithful and humble service which earned him the honor, and congratulated also his family and parish.
The Prelate then delivered the sermon on the day’s Gospel reading from Luke 4:14-24, which tells of Jesus beginning his Galilean ministry and being rejected at Nazareth. We all face various trials in our lives, stated the Prelate, but we must trust in our Lord Jesus Christ, in His Truth, teachings, and His promise of redemption, so that we may overcome and triumph over hardship.
Later in the service, Archpriest Fr. Gomidas Torossian conveyed his gratitude to His Holiness and to the Prelate for granting him the honor.
Following the service, the Prelate presided over a luncheon in celebration of the Feast of the Holy Translators held at the adjoining “Armenak Der Bedrossian” Hall, which was sponsored by St. Mary’s Church Pastors and Board of Trustees and was organized by Prelacy Bible Study groups.
Opening remarks were delivered by Brother Krikor Misserlian, who on behalf of the Bible Study Groups presented a plaque to the Prelate in appreciation for his spiritual and community leadership, guidance, and support. Mrs. Arpi Kitsinian served as the MC. The keynote speaker was Dr. Hagop Dikranian.
The Prelate spoke to the guests about the legacy of our Holy Translators and commended the Bible Study groups, led by Brother Krikor Misserlian, who for decades have been instructing our faithful on the Word of God. A special cake was also prepared in celebration of the Prelate’s 20th anniversary of election and 40th anniversary of ordination.
