On Sunday, October 29, 2023, H.G. Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Prelate of the Western Prelacy, on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, presided over the Divine Liturgy and delivered the sermon of blessings at St. Gregory the Illuminator church in San Francisco. H.G. Bishop Donoyan cited Christs’ crucifixion emphasizing that Christ did not remain on the cross, resurrected and ascended to heaven, offering humankind the promise of new life, and extending an invitation of divine love through his personal sacrifice.
Assisting at the altar were Very Rev. Fr. Smpad Saboundjian, Pastor of St. Gregory the Illuminator church, deacons, and acolytes. During the Divine Liturgy, the church choir was joined by renowned vocalists from Los Angeles, tenor Berj Karazian and soprano Armine Vardanyan, who together with pianist Armine Derderian, performed sacred songs.
Mr. Garbis Bezdjian, Executive Council member of the Western Prelacy, and Mr. Rostom Aintablian, member of the Central Executive, attended the Divine Liturgy. Also present were representatives of various community organizations, benefactors, friends, as well as a large number of parishioners.
After the Divine Liturgy, the community organized a luncheon at the Saroyan Hall of the Khachaturian Armenian Community Center, which was attended by approximately two hundred members of the congregation and community.
The luncheon commenced with the illumination of candles. The word HOPE was formed with the enlightened candles, conveying wishes for the well-being, prosperity, and endurance of Armenians, ranging from those residing in San Francisco to the displaced Artsakh Armenians and families affected by disasters. In addition, a fundraiser was organized, and funds were raised which will be used to provide humanitarian aid to displaced Artsakh Armenians.
During the luncheon national and folk songs were played, alongside musical performances by Berj Karazian and Armine Vardanyan, accompanied by pianist Armine Derderian.
