On Monday, October 28, 2024, H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian, Prelate of the Western Prelacy of the United States, visited Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School in Hollywood. Upon his arrival, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian was greeted by Archpriest Fr. Vicken Vassilian, Pastor of St. Garabed Armenian Apostolic Church, Dr. Souzy Ohanian, Principal of Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School, Ms. Kristina Movsessian, Director of Mary Postoian Armenian Preschool, and Mr. Vahe Tashjian, Chairperson of the School Board, along with School Board members Mr. Gary Daglian and Mr. Sevag Demirjian. Also present during the visit were Mr. Mher Der Ohanessian, Vice-Chair of the Western Prelacy Executive Council, and national benefactor Dr. Mike Sarian.
During H.E. Archbishop Kegham Khacherian’s visit, the Armenian club and the cultural month committee had organized a cultural program in the school’s “Nerses Tashjian” gymnasium. The cultural program included performances by students of Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School. Following the cultural program, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian visited classrooms, conversed with different grade-level students, and gave his fatherly blessings to students and teachers.
During his remarks, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian emphasized the significant role of Prelacy Armenian Schools in preserving the Armenian identity of Christian Armenian students. The Prelate urged the students to safeguard their culture and the Armenian language, bestowed upon them by St. Mesrob Mashdots, and cautioned them against being swayed and influenced by foreign cultures. H.E. Archbishop Khacherian stressed the importance of passing down our culture and language to future generations.
H.E. Archbishop Khacherian also praised the school administrators, Principal, teachers, and parents for their commitment and sacrifice in nurturing their children and students as Armenian Christians. The Prelate also commended the heroism of Armenian schools in sustaining their presence, preserving and fostering our Armenian identity and cultural heritage, while serving the Armenian community and nation, despite the obstacles of the present challenging times.
During his remarks to the loving students, H.E. Archbishop Khacherian delivered a heartfelt message of prayer and blessings stating, “Dear students, you are considered heroes of our nation today. You are our nation’s source of pride and play a crucial role in ensuring the Armenian School continues to thrive. In the future, you will emerge as responsible leaders of our organizations, community, and nation.”
