On Sunday, May 22, 2022, H.G. Bishop Torkom Donoyan, Prelate, conducted the ordination and consecration of three celibate priests which was presided over by H.H. Aram I, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia. According to tradition, an ordained priest has a godfather. The role of godfather of the three newly ordained celibate priests was assumed by the Western Prelacy Executive Council Chairman Mr. Vahe Hovaguimian.
After the ordination, His Holiness presided over a luncheon inside the Seminary, which was held in honor of the three newly ordained celibate priests. The luncheon was attended by Mr. & Mrs. Vahe and Hasmig Hovaguimian, clergy, administration of the Seminary, students and the parents of the newly ordained priests.
At the conclusion of the luncheon, Bishop Donoyan read H.H. Aram I’s Encyclical, in which the pontiff emphasized the dedication and service the Hovaguimian couple show towards the Armenian Church. “As a tangible expression of your zeal for the Armenian Church, you have made and continue to make an important contribution to the activities of the Western Prelacy of the United States of America, both through the National Assembly and the Executive Council. Both you and your wife Hasmig have supported the endeavors of the Western Prelacy through various means.” After the reading of the Pontifical Encyclical, His Holiness bestowed upon Mr. Vahe Hovaguimian the “Knight of Cilicia” medal.