On Sunday March 9, 2014, H.E. Archbishop Moushegh Mardirossian, Prelate, paid a pastoral visit to the San Francisco parish community. In the morning, His Eminence presided over Divine Liturgy at St. Gregory Church. Rev. Fr. Boghos Tinkjian celebrated Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon. Deacons Khatchig Shannakian and Avo Markarian assisted at the altar.
Sunrise Service was held at the conclusion of Divine Liturgy presided over by the Prelate. In his address to the faithful, His Eminence greeted the parish community and introduced the day’s celebrant and two deacons, who are also priesthood candidates. The Prelate stated that in the past year, new clergy assignments were made within the Prelacy, and the time has come for St. Gregory Church to have a new parish priest as well.
The sermon by Fr. Boghos was on the Sunday of Expulsion, with the theme “by eating the fruit, they consumed the bitterness of sin and death,” and the message that through the acknowledgment of our sins and repentance, we can have the hope of re-entering into God’s favor through the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
A reception followed at “Vasbouragan” Hall after the service. Board of Trustees Chair Mr. Rostom Aintablian welcomed the Prelate and guests. His Eminence conveyed his blessings, commending the efforts and service of community members.
In the afternoon, the Prelate, Fr. Boghos, and deacons attended the ARS “Erepouni” Chapter 80th anniversary celebration held at “Saroyan Hall” of the Khachaturian Armenian Community Center.
His Eminence delivered the invocation and conveyed his message, commending the ARS members for their service and wishing them success in their future endeavors.
The Prelate’s visit concluded with a meeting with Parish Pastor Archpriest Fr. Khoren Habeshian, Board of Trustees, Delegates, and Executive Council representative Mr. Sako Shrikian. During discussions on matters concerning the church and community, His Eminence advised to set aside personal expectations and wishes and to seek God’s will instead.
