On Sunday morning, February 23, 2025, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, celebrated Divine Liturgy at Holy Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church in Encino. During the Divine Liturgy, the Prelate delivered an inspiring sermon and performed the blessing of the offering (Madagh). Following the Divine Liturgy, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian presided over a requiem service in memory of the deceased members of the Armenian Relief Society (ARS), with Archpriest Fr. Gomidas Torossian, Pastor of St. Mary’s Armenian Apostolic Church of Glendale, serving as the celebrant. The Divine Liturgy was attended by students from Holy Martyrs Ferrahian Armenian School, members of the local ARS chapter, and community.
H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian began his sermon with a spiritual reflection, posing the question, “How can the essence of the Bible be summarized in one sentence?” In response to this question, the Prelate emphasized to live our lives by the commandment recorded in the Holy Scripture “Love your neighbor as yourself” which embodies the fulfillment of all the prophecies and commandments of the Holy Bible, as taught by St. Paul the Apostle.
Expanding on this reflection, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian referenced the stories taught by Jesus Christ, illustrating how Christ sought to clarify divine truths and impart them to His followers. The Prelate explained that Jesus Christ encouraged people to go beyond self-interest, fostering compassion and care for others around them, by treating them as they themselves would wish to be treated.
Within this context, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian provided a detailed interpretation of the Parable of the Good Samaritan, emphasizing two key lessons. First, the Prelate explained that in life it is not enough to simply believe in doing good and be considered a good person, faith must be demonstrated through compassionate action; one must actively embody faith through compassionate deeds. Second, acts of kindness and helping others should transcend societal and artificial boundaries, and must be extended whenever and wherever is needed without hesitation or restrictions.
Drawing a parallel between the Good Samaritan and the Armenian Relief Society, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian highlighted the mission of the century-old organization, describing it as a modern-day embodiment of Good Samaritan’s of the Armenian nation, dedicated to serving those in need without any limits or limitations, while responding and fulfilling the needs of those wounded and in need of assistance, often without prior notice, especially in times of crisis. The Prelate described the ARS as a Samaritan with a healing hand, always ready to respond to calls for assistance around the world.
In his closing remarks, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian commended the global humanitarian mission and dedicated spirit of the Armenian Relief Society and its unwavering commitment, recognizing the Armenian mothers, women, and young ladies who serve the organization’s mission with selfless devotion. The Prelate honored them as “Good Samaritans of the Armenian nation.”
Following the Divine Liturgy, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian presided over a requiem service in memory of deceased ARS members and blessed the offering (Madagh) prepared in their memory.
On the same day, requiem services dedicated to the late members of the Armenian Relief Society were held across all Western Prelacy churches. These requiem services were attended by ARS chapter executives, members, and the families, relatives, and friends of the departed, who had dedicated their lives to the mission of the Armenian Relief Society.
