On the morning of Sunday, June 16, 2024, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, celebrated Divine Liturgy and delivered sermon at St. Sarkis Armenia Apostolic Church of Pasadena. The occasion marked the Discovery of the Relics by St. Gregory the Illuminator and Father’s Day in the United States.
Rev. Fr. Boghos Baltayan, Pastor of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, deacons and the church choir, under the direction of Deacon Yervant Keshishian, served at the altar. Among those in attendance at the Divine Liturgy were Mr. Vahe Hovaguimian, Chairman of the Executive Council of the Western Prelacy, Mr. Sarkis Tatikian, Executive Council member and a delegate of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, Mr. Melkon Jivalagian, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church, relatives, benefactors and faithful parishioners.
The inspiring sermon delivered by H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian included two main parts. The Prelate initially referenced the significance of the Feast of the Discovery of the Relics by St. Gregory the Illuminator, highlighting how this observance is directly connected to the first Catholicos, St. Gregory the Illuminator’s discovery of the relics. H.E. Archbishop Khacherian shared that this feast holds a significant place within the Armenian Church, with the golden relic from St. Gregory the Illuminator’s right hand, serving as an enduring source of inspiration and a symbol representing religious authenticity of the Armenian Church.
H.E. Archbishop Khacherian also emphasized the significance of the role of fatherhood in our existence, highlighting the attributes of a father as generous and nurturing, empathetic and noble, who is responsible for the well-being and advancement of his family. The Prelate also stressed the role of spiritual fathers in the lives of mankind, particularly in fostering a closer connection between mankind and God.
At the conclusion of his sermon, Archbishop Khacherian extended congratulations to all spiritual and secular fathers and grandfathers, offering his sincere blessings and well-wishes to all.
Following the Divine Liturgy, the Prelate proceeded to the church hall, where he participated in the ceremonial cutting of a cake in honor of his inaugural visit to the Pasadena community. During this momentous occasion, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, dedicated the cake to the Executive Council of the Western Prelacy and its affiliated bodies, declaring “They, with fatherly care attend to and serve the overall interests and needs of the Western Prelacy.”
